Treatment of angiopoietin like 7 (angptl7) related diseases

ABSTRACT

Provided herein are oligonucleotide compositions that inhibit ANGPTL7 and reduce intraocular pressure when administered to an eye. The oligonucleotide compositions contain nucleoside modifications.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/012,524, filed Sep. 4, 2020, which is a continuation of InternationalApplication No. PCT/US20/34063, filed May 21, 2020, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/852,813, filed May 24,2019, and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/881,906, filed Aug. 1,2019, which applications are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

SEQUENCE LISTING

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has beensubmitted electronically in ASCII format and is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on May 15, 2020 andupdated on Jan. 21, 2021, is named 54462-709_302_SL.txt and is 3,368,664bytes in size.

BACKGROUND

Large-scale human genetic data provides a mechanism for improving thesuccess rate of pharmaceutical discovery and development by leveragingexperiments of nature.

The Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) is an experimental design todetect associations between genetic variants and traits in a populationsample. The purpose is to better understand the biology of disease andto develop treatments based on this understanding. GWAS can utilizegenotyping and/or sequencing data and often involves evaluation ofmillions of genetic variants that are relatively evenly distributedacross the genome. The most common GWAS design is the case-controlstudy, which involves comparing variant frequencies in cases versuscontrols. If a variant has a significantly different frequency in casesversus controls, that variant is said to be associated with disease. Thecommonly reported association statistics for GWAS are p-values, as ameasure of statistical significance and odds ratios (OR) or betacoefficients (beta), as a measure of effect size. Researchers oftenassume an additive genetic model and calculate an allelic odds ratio,which is the increased (or decreased) risk of disease conferred by eachadditional copy of an allele (compared to carrying no copies of thatallele). An additional and important concept in design andinterpretation of GWAS is that of linkage disequilibrium, which is thenon-random association of alleles. The presence of linkagedisequilibrium can obfuscate which is the “causal” variant.

Functional annotation of variants and/or wet lab experimentation canidentify the causal genetic variant identified via GWAS, and in manycases, this has led to the identification of disease-causing genes. Inparticular, understanding the functional effect of a causal geneticvariant (e.g. loss or gain of protein function, increase or decrease ingene expression) allows that variant to be used as a proxy fortherapeutic modulation of the target gene and to gain an insight intothe potential therapeutic efficacy and safety of a therapeutic thatmodulates that target.

Identification of such gene-disease associations has providedfundamental insights into disease biology and is rapidly becoming anessential means of identifying novel therapeutic targets for thepharmaceutical industry. In order to translate the therapeutic insightsderived from human genetics, disease biology in patients must beexogenously ‘programmed’ into replicating the observation from humangenetics. Today, the potential options for therapeutic modality thatcould be brought to bear in translating therapeutic targets identifiedvia human genetics into novel medicines are greater than ever before.These include well established therapeutic modalities such as smallmolecules and monoclonal antibodies, maturing modalities such asoligonucleotides and emerging modalities such as gene therapy and geneediting. The choice of therapeutic modality depends on several factorsincluding the location of the target (e.g. intracellular, extracellularor secreted), the relevant tissue (e.g. lung, liver) and the relevantindication.

SUMMARY

Glaucoma is a heterogenous group of diseases, affecting greater than 70million people worldwide, that is characterized by optic nerve damageresulting in a progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells and leading toloss of vision. The different subtypes of glaucoma are generallystratified by the iridocorneal angle, with open-angle glaucomaaccounting for approximately 75% of cases. Though the pathophysiology ofglaucoma remains poorly understood, a primary causal feature and riskfactor is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP is determined by thebalance between aqueous humor secretion from the ciliary body and itsdrainage through the trabecular meshwork and uveoscleral outflowpathways. Reducing IOP is the only strategy that has been proven toprevent the development or slow the progression of glaucoma andconsequently, treatment is focused on lowering IOP to target levels byincreasing aqueous outflow or decreasing aqueous production. Severalclasses of IOP-lowering medication are used, including prostaglandinanalogues, beta-adrenergic blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, carbonicanhydrase inhibitors and most-recently rho kinase inhibitors. Surgicalmethods, such as laser trabeculoplasty to improve drainage of aqueoushumor through the trabecular meshwork, are also employed. Despite theavailability of medical and surgical therapies for glaucoma, it is theleading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and there remains aneed for novel therapeutic strategies that may further reduce the riskof the significant morbidity and reduction in quality of life associatedwith loss of vision.

In one aspect, provided is a composition comprising an inhibitor ormodulator of ANGPTL7 that is efficacious in treating glaucoma and ocularhypertension. In some embodiments, the inhibitor or modulator of ANGPTL7is an RNAi. In some embodiments, the RNAi is siRNA. In some embodiments,the siRNA comprises one or more sense strand and antisense strandsequences selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, thesiRNA comprises a sequence comprising the reverse complement of asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, thesiRNA comprises a sequence having at least about 85%, 90%, or 95%homology to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In someembodiments, the siRNA comprises a sequence having at least about 85%,90%, or 95% identity to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. Insome embodiments, the RNAi is miRNA. In some embodiments, the RNAi is anantisense oligonucleotide (ASO). In some embodiments, the ASO isdouble-stranded or single-stranded. In some embodiments, the inhibitorof ANGPTL7 is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the inhibitor ofANGPTL7 is an aptamer. In some embodiments, the aptamer is anoligonucleotide aptamer. In some embodiments, the aptamer is a peptideaptamer. In some embodiments, the inhibitor of ANGPTL7 is an antibody.In some embodiments, the antibody is a monoclonal antibody.

In another aspect, provided herein are molecules for inhibition ormodulation of angiopoietin-like 7 (ANGPTL7) gene products, includingdsRNA (dsRNA) agents such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), orantisense oligonucleotides for therapeutic use. Further provided aremethods of inhibiting the expression of a target gene by administering adsRNA agent, or antisense oligonucleotide, e.g., for the treatment ofvarious diseases involving ANGPTL7 gene products. Also provided is amethod of modulating the expression of a target gene in a cell,comprising providing to said cell a dsRNA agent, or antisenseoligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the target gene is ANGPTL7.

In another aspect, provided is a method of treating one or moredisorders of the eye in a subject in need thereof comprising editing anANGPTL7 gene in the subject wherein the one or more disorders of the eyecomprises glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In some embodiments, theediting of the ANGPTL7 gene comprises administering CRISPR/cas9 to thesubject. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 targets the ANGPTL7 gene.In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7 gene to a loss offunction mutation. In some embodiments, the loss of function mutationcomprises a premature stop mutation. In some embodiments, the prematurestop mutation occurs at amino acid position 177 according to the humanprotein sequence numbering. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 editsthe ANGPTL7 gene to a missense mutation. In some embodiments, themissense mutation comprises a glutamine to histidine mutation. In someembodiments, the glutamine to histidine mutation occurs at amino acidposition 175 according to the human protein sequence numbering. In someembodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered systemically to the subject.In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered locally to thesubject. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered locally tothe eye of the subject. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 isdelivered locally to the eye of the subject via intraocular injection.In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered locally to the eye ofthe subject via topical solution. In some embodiments, the editing ofthe ANGPTL7 gene is efficacious in treating the one or more disorders ofthe eye. In some embodiments, the one or more disorders of the eye isglaucoma. In some embodiments, the subject has ocular hypertension. Insome embodiments, the subject has received a first line treatmentcomprising topical ocular prostaglandin analogues, beta-adrenergicblockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitorsfor the one or more disorders of the upper and eye. In some embodiments,the editing of the ANGPTL7 gene causes a reduction in or modulation ofthe production of the gene product of ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, theediting of the ANGPTL7 gene causes a reduction in the subject ofintraocular pressure.

In another aspect, provided is a composition comprising CRISPR/cas9 thattargets ANGPTL7 that is efficacious in treating glaucoma or ocularhypertension. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7gene to a loss of function mutation. In some embodiments, the loss offunction mutation comprises a premature stop mutation. In someembodiments, the premature stop mutation occurs at amino acid position177 according to the human protein sequence numbering. In someembodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7 gene to a missensemutation. In some embodiments, the missense mutation comprises aglutamine to histidine mutation. In some embodiments, the glutamine tohistidine mutation occurs at amino acid position 175 according to thehuman protein sequence numbering.

A non-limiting example of a therapeutic molecule for inhibiting ormodulating ANGPTL7 is RNA interference (RNAi), where double-strandedRNAi (dsRNA) can be utilized to block gene expression. Short dsRNAdirects gene-specific, post-transcriptional silencing in many organisms,including vertebrates, and has provided a new tool for studying genefunction. RNAi is mediated by RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), asequence-specific, multi- component nuclease that destroys messengerRNAs homologous to the silencing trigger. RISC is known to contain shortRNAs (approximately 21 nucleotides) derived from the double-stranded RNAtrigger, but the protein components of this activity remained unknown.

Another non-limiting example of a therapeutic molecule for inhibiting ormodulating ANGPTL7 is antisense oligonucleotides. DNA-RNA and RNA-RNAhybridization are important to many aspects of nucleic acid functionincluding DNA replication, transcription, and translation. Hybridizationis also central to a variety of technologies that either detect aparticular nucleic acid or alter its expression. Antisense nucleotides,for example, disrupt gene expression by hybridizing to target RNA,thereby interfering with RNA splicing, transcription, translation, andreplication. Antisense DNA has the added feature that DNA-RNA hybridsserve as a substrate for digestion by ribonuclease H (RNaseH), anactivity that is present in most cell types. Antisense molecules can bedelivered into cells, as is the case for oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs),or they can be expressed from endogenous genes as RNA molecules.

Another non-limiting example of a therapeutic molecule for inhibiting ormodulating ANGPTL7 is splice switching antisense oligonucleotides(SSOs). These are short, synthetic, antisense, modified nucleic acidsthat hybridize with a pre-mRNA and disrupt the normal splicingrepertoire of the transcript by blocking the RNA-RNA base-pairing orprotein-RNA binding interactions that occur between components of thesplicing machinery and the pre-mRNA. Splicing of pre-mRNA is requiredfor the proper expression of the vast majority of protein-coding genes,and thus, targeting the process offers a means to manipulate proteinproduction from a gene. As an example, the splicing of a pre-mRNA canalso be used to alter the reading frame downstream of the splice siteleading to a truncated protein with impaired function.

Splice switching antisense oligonucleotides differ from mRNA cleavingantisense oligonucleotides in that they do not recruit RNaseH to degradethe pre-mRNA-SSO complex and are strictly steric blocking. This isaccomplished through the use of fully, or nearly fully, 2′-modifiedantisense oligonucleotides that therefore lack the necessary DNA-RNAhybrid region that is recognized by RNaseH. Other types of modifiedoligonucleotides for modifying splicing are phosphoramidite morpholinos(PMOs). PMOs have a morpholine ring in place of the furanose ring foundin natural nucleic acids and a neutral phosphorodiamidate backbone inplace of the negatively charged phosphodiester backbone.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides methods forinhibiting or modulating the action of a natural transcript by usingantisense oligonucleotide(s) targeted to any region of the naturaltranscript. It is also contemplated herein that inhibition or modulationof the natural transcript can be achieved by siRNA, ribozymes and smallmolecules. In an exemplary embodiment, the natural transcript encodesfor ANGPTL7.

One embodiment provides a method of modulating function and/orexpression of an ANGPTL7 polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, invivo or in vitro, the method comprising contacting said cells or tissueswith an antisense oligonucleotide 5 to 30 nucleotides in length, whereinsaid antisense oligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to areverse complement of a polynucleotide comprising 5 to 30 consecutivenucleotides within nucleotides 1 to 6333 of SEQ ID NO: 11086, and anyvariants, alleles, homologs, mutants, derivatives, fragments andcomplementary sequences thereof, thereby modulating function and/orexpression of the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, invivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises SEQID NO: 11087. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, or95% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide targets a natural sequence ofANGPTL7 polynucleotides, for example, nucleotides set forth in SEQ IDNO: 11085, and any variants, alleles, homologs, mutants, derivatives,fragments and complementary sequences thereto. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:4413-11084. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% identical to a sequenceselected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide targets a natural sequence ofANGPTL7 polynucleotides, for example, nucleotides set forth in SEQ IDNO: 11086, and any variants, alleles, homologs, mutants, derivatives,fragments and complementary sequences thereto. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:4413-11084. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% identical to a sequenceselected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

In some embodiments, a composition comprises one or more antisenseoligonucleotides which bind to sense ANGPTL7 polynucleotides. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQID NOS: 4413-11084. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% identical to a sequenceselected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NO: 11087.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides comprise one or more modifiedor substituted nucleotides. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidescomprise one or more modified bonds. In some embodiments, the modifiednucleotides comprise modified bases comprising phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate, peptide nucleic acids, 2′-0-methyl, methoxyethly,fluoro- or carbon, methylene or other locked nucleic acid (LNA)molecules. In some embodiments, the modified nucleotides are lockednucleic acid molecules, including a-L-LNA.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides are administered to a patientby topical application, inhalation, intranasally, subcutaneously,intramuscularly, intravenously, intraocularly or intraperitoneally.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides are administered in apharmaceutical composition. A treatment regimen comprises administeringthe antisense compounds at least once to a patient; however, thistreatment can be modified to include multiple doses over a period oftime. The treatment can be combined with one or more other types oftherapies.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides are encapsulated in a liposomeor attached to a carrier molecule (e.g. cholesterol, TAT peptide).

In one aspect, provided herein is an RNA interference (RNAi) agentcapable of inhibiting or modulating the expression of angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7), wherein the RNAi agent comprises a double-stranded RNA(dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, each strandhaving 14 to 30 nucleotides. In some embodiments, the dsRNA has a lengthof 17-30 nucleotide pairs. In some embodiments, the sense strand andantisense strand each have 17-30 nucleotides. In some embodiments, thesense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises a sequence at least about80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to the reverse complement of thesense strand. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, thesequence of the sense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11089 and the sequenceof the antisense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11090. In some embodiments,the RNAi agent comprises one or more nucleotide modifications selectedfrom the group consisting of LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl,2′-0-alkyl, 2′-0-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-fluoro, and 2′-deoxy. In someembodiments, the nucleotides are modified with either 2′-OCH3 or 2′-F.In some embodiments, the RNAi agent further comprises at least oneligand. In some embodiments, the RNAi agent comprises one or morenucleotide modifications selected from the group consisting of2′-0-methyl nucleotide, 2′-deoxyfluoro nucleotide,2′-0-N-methylacetamido (2′-0-NMA) nucleotide, a2′-0-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-0-DMAEOE) nucleotide, 2′-0-aminopropyl(2′-0-AP) nucleotide, and 2′-ara-F. In some embodiments, the RNAi agentcomprises at least one phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkage. In some embodiments, the nucleotide at the 1position of the 5′-end of the antisense strand of the dsRNA is selectedfrom the group consisting of A, dA, dU, U, and dT. In some embodiments,the base pair at the 1 position of the 5′-end of the dsRNA is an AU basepair.

In one aspect, provided herein is an RNA interference (RNAi) agentcapable of inhibiting or modulating the expression of ANGPTL7, whereinthe RNAi agent comprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising asense strand and an antisense strand, each of the strands having 14 to30 nucleotides, wherein the sense strand contains at least two motifs ofthree identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, a firstof said sense strand motifs occurring at a cleavage site in the sensestrand and a second of said sense strand motifs occurring at a differentregion of the sense strand that is separated from the first sense strandmotif by at least one nucleotide; and wherein the antisense strandcontains at least two motifs of three identical modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides, a first of said antisense strand motifsoccurring at or near the cleavage site in the antisense strand and asecond of said antisense strand motifs occurring at a different regionof the antisense strand that is separated from the first antisensestrand motif by at least one nucleotide; wherein the modification in thefirst antisense strand motif is different than the modification in thesecond antisense strand motif. In some embodiments, at least one of thenucleotides occurring in the first sense strand motif forms a base pairwith one of the nucleotides in the first antisense strand motif. In someembodiments, the dsRNA has 17-30 nucleotide base pairs. In someembodiments, the dsRNA has 17-19 nucleotide base pairs. In someembodiments, each strand has 17-23 nucleotides. In some embodiments, themodifications on the nucleotides of the sense strand and/or antisensestrand are selected from the group consisting of LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl, 2′-0-alkyl, 2′-0-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-fluoro, 2′-deoxy,and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the modifications on thenucleotides of the sense strand and/or antisense strand are 2′-OCH3 or2′-F. In some embodiments, the RNAi agent further comprises a ligandattached to the 3′ end of the sense strand.

In one aspect, provided herein is an RNA interference (RNAi) agentcapable of inhibiting or modulating the expression of ANGPTL7, whereinthe RNAi agent comprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising asense strand and an antisense strand, each of the strands having 14 to30 nucleotides, wherein the sense strand contains at least one motif ofthree 2′-F modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, one of saidmotifs occurring at or near the cleavage site in the sense strand; andwherein the antisense strand contains at least one motif of three2′-0-methyl modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, one of saidmotifs occurring at or near the cleavage site in the antisense strand.In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises a sequence at leastabout 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected fromSEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprisesa sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to thereverse complement of the sense strand. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%,or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotidein patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising:contacting said cells or tissues with at least one antisenseoligonucleotide 5 to 30 nucleotides in length, wherein said at least oneantisense oligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to areverse complement of a polynucleotide comprising 5 to 30 consecutivenucleotides within nucleotides 1 to 2224 of SEQ ID NO: 11085; therebymodulating a function of and/or the expression of the angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, in vivo or invitro.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotidein patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising:contacting said cells or tissues with at least one antisenseoligonucleotide 5 to 30 nucleotides in length, wherein said antisenseoligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to an antisenseoligonucleotide to the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide;thereby modulating a function of and/or the expression of theangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotidein patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising:contacting said cells or tissues with at least one antisenseoligonucleotide that targets a region of a natural antisenseoligonucleotide of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide;thereby modulating a function of and/or the expression of theangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotidein patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising:contacting said cells or tissues with at least one antisenseoligonucleotide 5 to 30 nucleotides in length; thereby modulating afunction of and/or the expression of the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide inpatient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro.

In some embodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotidecomprises SEQ ID NO: 11087. In some embodiments, the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NO: 11087. In someembodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% identical to SEQ ID NO:11087. In some embodiments, a function of and/or the expression of theangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) is increased in vivo or in vitro withrespect to a control oligonucleotide that does not target orspecifically hybridize to ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, a function ofand/or the expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) is decreasedin vivo or in vitro with respect to a control oligonucleotide that doesnot target or specifically hybridize to ANGPTL7. In some embodiments,the at least one antisense oligonucleotide targets a natural antisensesequence of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide. In someembodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotide targets anucleic acid sequence comprising coding and/or non-coding nucleic acidsequences of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide. In someembodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotide targetsoverlapping and/or non- overlapping sequences of an angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide. In some embodiments, the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide comprises one or more modifications. In someembodiments, the one or more modifications is selected from: at leastone modified sugar moiety, at least one modified internucleosidelinkage, at least one modified nucleotide, and combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the one or more modifications comprise at least onemodified sugar moiety selected from: a 2′-0-methoxyethyl modified sugarmoiety, a 2′-methoxy modified sugar moiety, a 2′-0-alkyl modified sugarmoiety, a bicyclic sugar moiety, and combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the one or more modifications comprise at least onemodified internucleoside linkage selected from: a phosphorothioate, 2′-Omethoxyethyl (MOE), 2′-fluoro, alkylphosphonate, phosphorodithioate,alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate, carbonate, phosphatetriester, acetamidate, carboxymethyl ester, and combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the one or more modifications comprise at least onemodified nucleotide selected from: a peptide nucleic acid (PNA), alocked nucleic acid (LNA), an arabin-nucleic acid (FANA), an analogue, aderivative, and combinations thereof.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) gene inmammalian cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising:contacting said cells or tissues with at least one short interfering RNA(siRNA) oligonucleotide 5 to 30 nucleotides in length, said at least onesiRNA oligonucleotide being specific for an antisense polynucleotide ofan angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, wherein said at leastone siRNA oligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to acomplementary sequence of at least about five consecutive nucleic acidsof the antisense and/or sense nucleic acid molecule of the angiopoietinlike 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby modulating a function of and orthe expression of angiopoietin like 7, (ANGPTL7) in mammalian cells ortissues in vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, said oligonucleotidehas at least 80% sequence identity to a sequence of at least about fiveconsecutive nucleic acids that is complementary to the antisense and/orsense nucleic acid molecule of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide. In some embodiments, the at least one siRNAoligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.In some embodiments, the at least one siRNA oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of modulating a function ofand/or the expression of angiopoietin like 7, (ANGPTL7) in mammaliancells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contactingsaid cells or tissues with at least one antisense oligonucleotide ofabout 5 to 30 nucleotides in length, the antisense oligonucleotidespecific for noncoding and/or coding sequences of a sense and/or naturalantisense strand of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide,wherein said at least one antisense oligonucleotide has at least 50%sequence identity to at least one nucleic acid sequence set forth as 1to 2224 of SEQ ID NO: 11085 or its complement; thereby modulating thefunction and/or expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (AGNPTL7) inmammalian cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments,the at least one antisense oligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NO: 11087.In some embodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotidecomprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% identical to SEQID NO:11087.

In one aspect, provided herein is a synthetic, modified oligonucleotidecomprising at least one modification wherein the at least onemodification is selected from: at least one modified sugar moiety; atleast one modified intenucleotide linkage; at least one modifiednucleotide, and combinations thereof; wherein said oligonucleotide is anantisense compound which hybridizes to and modulates the function and/orexpression of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in vivo orin vitro as compared to a control oligonucleotide that does notspecifically hybridize to the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide. In someembodiments, the at least one modification comprises an internucleotidelinkage selected from the group consisting of: phosphorothioate,alkylphosphonate, phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate,phosphoramidate, carbamate, carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate,carboxymethyl ester, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, saidoligonucleotide comprises at least one phosphorothioate internucleotidelinkage. In some embodiments, said oligonucleotide comprises a backboneof phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises at least one modified nucleotide, saidmodified nucleotide selected from: a peptide nucleic acid, a lockednucleic acid (LNA), and an analogue, derivative, and a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a pluralityof modifications, wherein said modifications comprise modifiednucleotides selected from: phosphorothioate, alkylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, carboxymethyl ester, and acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprisesa plurality of modifications, wherein said modifications comprisemodified nucleotides selected from: peptide nucleic acids, lockednucleic acids (LNA), and analogues, derivatives, and a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises at least onemodified sugar moiety selected from: a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugarmoiety, a 2′-methoxy modified sugar moiety, a 2-0-alkyl modified sugarmoiety, a bicyclic sugar moiety, and a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a plurality of modifications,wherein said modifications comprise modified sugar moieties selectedfrom: a 2′-0-methoxyethyl modified sugar moiety, a 2-methoxy modifiedsugar moiety, a 2′-0-alkyl modified sugar moiety, a bicyclic sugarmoiety, and a combination thereof. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide is of at least about 5 to 30 nucleotides in length andhybridizes to an antisense and/or sense strand of an angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, wherein said oligonucleotide has at leastabout 20% sequence identity to a complementary sequence of at leastabout five consecutive nucleic acids of the antisense and/or sensecoding and/or noncoding nucleic acid sequences of the angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide hasat least about 80% sequence identity to a complementary sequence of atleast about five consecutive nucleic acids of the antisense and or sensecoding and/or noncoding nucleic acid sequence of the angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said oligonucleotidehybridizes to and modulates expression and/or function of at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, in vivo or in vitro, ascompared to the control oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises the sequence set forth as SEQ ID NO: 11087. Insome embodiments, the at least one antisense oligonucleotide comprisesSEQ ID NO: 11087. In some embodiments, the at least one antisenseoligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, or95% identical to SEQ ID NO: 11087.

In one aspect, provided herein is a composition comprising one or moreoligonucleotides specific for one or more angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotides, said one or more oligonucleotides comprising anantisense sequence, complementary sequence, allele, homolog, isoform,variant, derivative, mutant, or fragment of the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide,or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or moreoligonucleotides have at least about 40% sequence identity as comparedto the nucleotide sequence set forth as SEQ ID NO: 11087. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises the nucleotide sequence setforth as SEQ ID NO: 11087. In some embodiments, the one or moreoligonucleotides comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.In some embodiments, the one or more oligonucleotides comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the oneor more oligonucleotides comprises one or more modifications orsubstitutions. In some embodiments, the one or more modifications areselected from: phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate, peptide nucleicacid, locked nucleic acid (LNA) molecules, and combinations thereof.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of preventing or treating adisease associated with at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide and/or at least one encoded product thereof, the methodcomprising: administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeuticallyeffective dose of at least one antisense oligonucleotide that binds to anatural antisense sequence of said at least one angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and modulates expression of said at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby preventing ortreating the disease associated with the at least one angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and or at least one encoded product thereof

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of preventing or treating adisease associated with at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide and/or at least one encoded product thereof, the methodcomprising: administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeuticallyeffective dose of at least one antisense oligonucleotide that binds to anatural sense sequence of said at least one angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and modulates expression of said at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby preventing ortreating the disease associated with the at least one angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and or at least one encoded product thereof

In some embodiments, a disease associated with the at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide is selected from: a diseaseor disorder associated with abnormal function and/or expression ofANGPTL7, a disease or disorder associated with optic nerve damage, adisease or disorder associated with intraocular pressure, a degenerativeretinal disease or disorder, an inflammatory eye disease or disorder, anallergic eye disease or disorder, a disease or disorder associated withdegeneration or inflammation of the joints, a disease or disorderassociated with abnormal lipid metabolism, cancer, Alzheimer's disease,dementia, stroke and brain ischemia. In some embodiments, the disease ordisorder associated with optic nerve damage comprises primary open-angleglaucoma, primary angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma,pigmentary glaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenitalglaucoma, inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondaryto intraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma, absolute glaucoma, ocularhypertension, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the diseaseor disorder associated with degeneration or inflammation of the jointscomprises osteoarthritis, osteoarthrosis or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, the cancer is selected from lung cancer, epidermoidcarcinoma, breast cancer, or a combination thereof

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of identifying and selectingat least one oligonucleotide for in vivo administration comprising:identifying at least one oligonucleotide comprising at least fiveconsecutive nucleotides which are complementary to ANGPTL7 or to apolynucleotide that is antisense to ANGPTL7; measuring the thermalmelting point of a hybrid of an antisense oligonucleotide and theANGPTL7 or the polynucleotide that is antisense to the ANGPTL7 understringent hybridization conditions; and selecting at least oneoligonucleotide for in vivo administration based on the informationobtained.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of treating a disease orcondition mediated by ANGPTL7, the method comprising administering to asubject in need thereof an oligonucleotide comprising a sequence atleast about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selectedfrom SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In someembodiments, the target is ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the disease orcondition comprises glaucoma (including, primary open-angle glaucoma,primary angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, pigmentaryglaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenital glaucoma,inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondary tointraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma and absolute glaucoma), ocularhypertension, optic neuropathy or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises dsRNA. In some embodiments,the oligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%,95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a sequence at leastabout 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO: 11087.

In one aspect, provided herein is a method of treating one or moredisorders of the eye in a subject in need thereof comprising editing anANGPTL7 gene in the subject wherein the one or more disorders of the eyecomprises glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In some embodiments, theediting of the ANGPTL7 gene comprises administering CRISPR/cas9 to thesubject. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 targets the ANGPTL7 gene.In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7 gene to a loss offunction mutation. In some embodiments, the loss of function mutationcomprises a premature stop mutation. In some embodiments, the prematurestop mutation occurs at amino acid position 177 according to the humanprotein sequence numbering. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 editsthe ANGPTL7 gene to a missense mutation. In some embodiments, themissense mutation comprises a glutamine to histidine mutation. In someembodiments, the glutamine to histidine mutation occurs at amino acidposition 175 according to the human protein sequence numbering. In someembodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered systemically to the subject.In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered locally to thesubject. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 is delivered locally tothe eye of the subject. In some embodiments, the editing of the ANGPTL7gene is efficacious in treating the one or more disorders of the eye. Insome embodiments, the one or more disorders of the eye is glaucoma. Insome embodiments, the subject has ocular hypertension. In someembodiments, imaging from the subject ocular hypertension demonstratesoptic nerve damage. In some embodiments, the subject has received afirst line treatment comprising topical ocular prostaglandin analogues,beta-adrenergic blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, and carbonicanhydrase inhibitors for the one or more disorders of the eye. In someembodiments, the editing of the ANGPTL7 gene causes a reduction in ormodulation of the production of the gene product of ANGPTL7 in thesubject. In some embodiments, the editing of the ANGPTL7 gene causes areduction in the subject of intraocular pressure.

In one aspect, provided herein is a composition comprising CRISPR/cas9that targets ANGPTL7 that is efficacious in treating glaucoma or ocularhypertension. In some embodiments, the

Attorney Docket No. 54462-709.302

CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7 gene to a loss of function mutation. Insome embodiments, the loss of function mutation comprises a prematurestop mutation. In some embodiments, the premature stop mutation occursat amino acid position 177 according to the human protein sequencenumbering. In some embodiments, the CRISPR/cas9 edits the ANGPTL7 geneto a missense mutation. In some embodiments, the missense mutationcomprises a glutamine to histidine mutation. In some embodiments, theglutamine to histidine mutation occurs at amino acid position 175according to the human protein sequence numbering.

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anoligonucleotide that targets Angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) and whenadministered to a subject in an effective amount decreases intraocularpressure, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises a small interfering RNA(siRNA) comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, the antisensestrand being complementary to a portion of a nucleic acid having thenucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085, and each strand having 14 to 30nucleotides. In some embodiments, the intraocular pressure is decreasedby about 10% or more, as compared to prior to administration. Disclosedherein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anoligonucleotide that targets Angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) and whenadministered to a cell decreases expression of ANGPTL7, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises a small interfering RNA (siRNA) comprising asense strand and an antisense strand, the antisense strand beingcomplementary to a portion of a nucleic acid having the nucleosidesequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085, and each strand having 14 to 30nucleotides. In some embodiments, the composition decreases expressionof ANGPTL7 as compared to a baseline ANGPTL7 measurement. In someembodiments, the baseline ANGPLT7 measurement is measured before thecomposition is administered to the cell. In some embodiments, thecomposition decreases expression of ANGPLT7 by at least 10% relative tothe baseline ANGPTL7 measurement. In some embodiments, the compositiondecreases expression of ANGPLT7 by at least 20% relative to the baselineANGPTL7 measurement. In some embodiments, the composition decreasesexpression of ANGPLT7 by at least 30% relative to the baseline ANGPTL7measurement. In some embodiments, the composition decreases expressionof ANGPLT7 by at least 40% relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 measurement.In some embodiments, the composition decreases expression of ANGPLT7 byat least 50% relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 measurement. In someembodiments, the composition decreases expression of ANGPLT7 by at least25% to 75% relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 measurement. In someembodiments, the baseline measurement is an ANGPLT7 protein measurement.In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is an ANGPLT7 mRNAmeasurement. In some embodiments, the expression of ANGPLT7 comprisesANGPTL7 mRNA expression. In some embodiments, the expression of ANGPLT7comprises ANGPTL7 protein expression. In some embodiments, the siRNAbinds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA with no more than 2 mismatches in theantisense strand. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a humanANGPTL7 mRNA target site that does not harbor an SNP, with a minorallele frequency (MAF) greater or equal to 1% (pos. 2-18). In someembodiments, the sense strand and the antisense strand each comprise aseed region that is not identical to a seed region of a human miRNA. Insome embodiments, the sense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence atleast 85% identical to any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117,118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948,1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429,1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765,1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or2192. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises the nucleosidesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120,206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092,1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436,1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796,1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192, or asense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprisesthe nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115,117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943,948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425,1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764,1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099,or 2192. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises anucleoside sequence at least 85% identical to any one of SEQ ID NOS:2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851,2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303,3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743,3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174,4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413,2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298,3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642,3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002,4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398, or anantisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462,2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300,3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644,3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003,4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises one or more modifiedinternucleoside linkages. In some embodiments, the one or more modifiedinternucleoside linkages comprise alkylphosphonate, phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate, phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate,phosphoramidate, carbamate, carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate,or carboxymethyl ester, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the one or more modified internucleoside linkages comprise aphosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises 2-6 modified internucleoside linkages. In some embodiments,the oligonucleotide comprises one or more modified nucleosides. In someembodiments, the one or more modified nucleosides comprise a lockednucleic acid (LNA), hexitol nucleic acid (HLA), cyclohexene nucleic acid(CeNA), a 2′,4′ constrained ethyl, 2′- methoxyethyl, 2′-O-alkyl,2′-O-allyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-fluoro, or 2′-deoxy, a 2′-O-methylnucleoside, 2′-deoxyfluoro nucleoside, 2′-O-N-methylacetamido (2′-O-NMA)nucleoside, a 2′-O- dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-O-DMAEOE) nucleoside,2′-O-aminopropyl (2′-O—AP) nucleoside, 2′-ara-F, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the one or more modified nucleosidescomprise a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside. In some embodiments, the oneor more modified nucleosides comprise a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside.In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises 15-23 modifiednucleosides. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a lipidattached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In someembodiments, the lipid comprises cholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl,stearoyl, lithocholoyl, docosanoyl, docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmitylstearyl, or a-tocopherol, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the lipid comprises cholesterol. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)peptide attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In someembodiments, the RGD peptide comprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), an aminobenzoic acid derived RGD, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the oligonucleotide comprises an RGD peptide and a lipid attached at a3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the sensestrand comprises modification pattern IS:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11381),modification pattern 2S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO:11382), modification pattern 3S: 5′ -nsnsnnNfnNfnNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′(SEQ ID NO: 11383), modification pattern 4S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11384), ormodification pattern 5S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQID NO: 11385); wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a2′ 0-methyl modified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, andN comprises a nucleoside. In some embodiments, the antisense strandcomprises modification pattern 1AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11386), modificationpattern 2AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnNfNfnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11387),modification pattern 3AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11388), or modification pattern 4AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11389); wherein “Nf” isa 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identicalthe sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises the sense strand sequence of ansiRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094,11095, 11096, 11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104,11105, 11106, 11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122,11123, 11124, 11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133,11134, 11135, 11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147,11148, 11149, 11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157,11158, 11159, 11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167,11168, 11169, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177,11178, 11180, 11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188,11189, 11191, 11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203,11204, 11205, 11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212, ora sense strandsequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises thenucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096,11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106,11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124,11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135,11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149,11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159,11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169,11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180,11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191,11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205,11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identical theantisense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises the antisense strandsequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222,11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239,11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250,11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265,11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275,11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285,11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295,11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306,11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320,11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332, or anantisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222,11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239,11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250,11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265,11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275,11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285,11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295,11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306,11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320,11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332. Insome embodiments, the sense strand or the antisense strand comprises a3′ overhang of at least 2 nucleosides. In some embodiments, thecomposition is a pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, thecomposition is sterile. Some embodiments include a pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier comprises water, a buffer, or a saline solution.

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are methods of treating an oculardisorder in a subject in need thereof, the method comprisingadministering to the subject a composition comprising an oligonucleotidethat targets ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the ocular disorder comprisesa glaucoma. In some embodiments, the composition decreases intraocularpressure in an eye of the subject relative to a baseline intraocularpressure measurement obtained from the subject prior to administeringthe composition to the subject. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identical to any one of SEQID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657,740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132,1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654,1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085,2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93,94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743,923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201,1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693,1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091,2095, 2099, or 2192, or a sense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657,740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132,1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654,1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085,2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identical to any oneof SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412,2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227,3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640,3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000,4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398. Insome embodiments, the antisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequenceof any one of SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324,2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149,3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631,3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970,3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305,or 4398, or an antisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413,2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298,3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642,3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002,4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398. In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises modification pattern IS:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11381),modification pattern 2S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO:11382), modification pattern 3S: 5′ -nsnsnnNfnNfnNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′(SEQ ID NO: 11383), modification pattern 4S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11384), ormodification pattern 5S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQID NO: 11385); wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a2′ 0-methyl modified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, andN comprises a nucleoside. In some embodiments, the antisense strandcomprises modification pattern 1AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11386), modificationpattern 2AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnNfNfnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11387),modification pattern 3AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11388), or modification pattern 4AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11389); wherein “Nf” isa 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identicalthe sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises the sense strand sequence of ansiRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094,11095, 11096, 11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104,11105, 11106, 11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122,11123, 11124, 11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133,11134, 11135, 11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147,11148, 11149, 11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157,11158, 11159, 11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167,11168, 11169, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177,11178, 11180, 11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188,11189, 11191, 11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203,11204, 11205, 11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212, ora sense strandsequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises thenucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096,11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106,11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124,11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135,11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149,11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159,11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169,11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180,11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191,11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205,11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identical theantisense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises the antisense strandsequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222,11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239,11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250,11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265,11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275,11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285,11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295,11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306,11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320,11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332, or anantisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222,11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239,11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250,11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265,11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275,11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285,11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295,11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306,11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320,11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332. Insome embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a cholesterol moietyattached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a lipid attached at a 3′ or5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the lipidcomprises cholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, lithocholoyl,docosanoyl, docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl, ora-tocopherol, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the lipidcomprises cholesterol. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide attached at a3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the RGDpeptide comprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), an aminobenzoic acid derived RGD, or a combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1D show an empty plasmid construct (FIG. 1A) used in accordancewith some embodiments, GFP tagged plasmid construct (FIG. 1B), arepresentative ANGPTL7 pre-mRNA encoding construct (FIG. 1C) and arepresentative ANGPTL7 CDS encoding construct (FIG. 1D).

FIG. 2 shows fluorescent microscopy images of HEK293 cells transfectedwith a pcDNA3.1(+) GFP vector.

FIG. 3 shows results of qPCR measuring ANGPTL7 mRNA expression in HEK293cells transfected with the WT and Q175H pre-mRNA expression constructs.

FIG. 4 shows results of qPCR measuring ANGPTL7 mRNA expression in HEK293cells transfected with the WT, Q175H, R140H and R177Ter pre-mRNAexpression constructs.

FIG. 5 includes an image of a western blot of ANGPTL7 in HEK293 cellstransfected with the WT, Q175H, R140H and R177Ter pre-mRNA expressionconstructs.

FIG. 6 includes results of an ELISA assay measuring ANGPTL7 proteinexpression in HEK293 cells transfected with the WT, Q175H, R140H andR177Ter pre-mRNA expression constructs.

FIG. 7 shows the ratio of secreted vs. intracellular protein (asmeasured by ELISA) in HEK293 cells transfected with the WT, Q175H, R140Hand R177Ter pre-mRNA expression constructs.

FIG. 8 includes an image of a western blot of ANGPTL7 in HEK293 cellstransfected with the WT, Q175H, R140H and R177Ter CDS expressionconstructs.

FIG. 9 shows protein coding and noncoding ANGPTL7 transcripts and therelative location of the Q175H missense variant.

FIG. 10 shows an agarose gel with transcript-specific PCR products fromHEK293 cells transfected with WT and Q175H pre-mRNA expressionconstructs.

FIG. 11 shows ANGPTL7 and MYOC expression in dexamethasone induced HTMcells.

FIG. 12 shows an agarose gel with transcript-specific PCR products fromdexamethasone induced primary HTM cells.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world,with an approximate 1-2% prevalence worldwide in individuals >40 yearsof age. There are several subtypes of glaucoma, but two subtypes aredominant primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary angle closureglaucoma (PACG). POAG accounts for about 90% of glaucoma cases in the USand the majority of these cases occur in the context of ocularhypertension (OHT). In some populations (i.e. Asian populations) themajority of glaucoma occurs in the context of normal intraocularpressure (normal-tension glaucoma, NTG).

Glaucoma is generally characterized by blocked outflow of the aqueoushumor through the conventional outflow pathway. The conventional outflowpathway is comprised of the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canalat the base of the cornea. There is also a non-conventional outflowpathway which involves uveoscleral drainage and accounts for a fractionof the aqueous humor outflow from the anterior compartment of the eye.Blockage of the TM/Schlemm's canal (conventional pathway) restrictsaqueous humor outflow leading to increased pressure in the anteriorchamber which translates to increased pressure in the posterior chamberand optic nerve degeneration and damage.

Treatments for glaucoma aim to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) totarget levels (generally a 20-50% reduction in IOP). Despite normal IOP,treatment of NTG also revolves around lowering IOP. Several classes ofIOP-lowering medication are used, including prostaglandin analogues(typically the first-line therapy), beta-adrenergic blockers,alpha-adrenergic agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Thesedrugs are often ineffective and surgical methods(trabeculoplasty/trabeculotomy) are employed. However, the beneficialeffects of trabeculoplasty/trabeculotomy decrease over time such thatthere is an approximate 10% failure rate per year.

Angiopoietin-like proteins (ANGPTLs) are a family of eight proteins withstructural and functional similarities to angiopoietins, comprised of anN-terminal coiled-coil domain which mediates homo-oligomerization and aC-terminal fibrinogen domain. ANGPTLs are widely expressed in the liver,vasculature and hematopoietic systems, and serve important roles ininflammation, lipid metabolism, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix(ECM) formation.

ANGPTL7 was originally discovered in human corneal cDNA libraries andnamed cornea-derived transcript 6 (CDT6) Immunohistochemistry revealsANGPTL7 staining in multiple tissues in the eye. ANGPTL7 isoverexpressed in the aqueous humor of patients with glaucoma and isupregulated by glaucomatous conditions such as TGFβ and dexamethasoneexposure. Nonetheless, the molecular function of ANGPTL7 in eye healthand disease is not well understood.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, thesingular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the pluralforms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”,“having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either thedetailed description and or the claims, such terms are intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

The term “about” or “approximately” means within an acceptable errorrange for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill inthe art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured ordetermined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. Forexample, “about” can mean within 1 or more than 1 standard deviation,per the practice in the art. In some cases, “about” can mean a range ofup to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, and up to 1% of a given value. In somecases, particularly with respect to biological systems or processes, theterm can mean within an order of magnitude, e.g., within 5-fold, orwithin 2-fold, of a value. Where particular values are described in theapplication and claims, unless otherwise stated the term “about” meaningwithin an acceptable error range for the particular value should beassumed.

In some embodiments, the term “mRNA” means the presently known mRNAtranscript(s) of a targeted gene, and any further transcripts which maybe elucidated.

In some embodiments, “dsRNA”, “siRNA”, and “siRNA agent” are usedinterchangeably as agents that can mediate silencing of a target RNA,e.g., mRNA, e.g., a transcript of a gene that encodes a protein. In somecases, the target RNA is ANGPTL7. Such mRNA may also be referred toherein as mRNA to be silenced. Such a gene is also referred to as atarget gene. In some cases, the RNA to be silenced is an endogenous geneor a pathogen gene. In addition, RNAs other than mRNA, e.g., tRNAs, andviral RNAs, can also be targeted.

In some embodiments, the phrase “mediates RNAi” refers to the ability tosilence, in a sequence specific manner, a target RNA. While not wishingto be bound by theory, it is believed that silencing uses the RNAimachinery or process and a guide RNA, e.g., an siRNA agent.

In some embodiments, “specifically hybridizable” and “complementary” areterms which are used to indicate a sufficient degree of complementaritysuch that stable and specific binding occurs between a compounddescribed herein and a target RNA molecule.

Specific binding may require a sufficient degree of complementarity toavoid non-specific binding of the oligomeric compound to non-targetsequences under conditions in which specific binding is desired, i.e.,under physiological conditions in the case of assays or therapeutictreatment, or in the case of in vitro assays, under conditions in whichthe assays are performed. The non-target sequences may differ by atleast 5 nucleotides.

In some embodiments, a dsRNA agent is “sufficiently complementary” to atarget RNA, e.g., a target mRNA, such that the dsRNA agent silencesproduction of protein encoded by the target mRNA. In some embodiments,the dsRNA agent is “exactly complementary” to a target RNA, e.g., thetarget RNA and the dsRNA duplex agent anneal, for example to form ahybrid made exclusively of Watson-Crick base pairs in the region ofexact complementarity. A “sufficiently complementary” target RNA caninclude an internal region (e.g., of at least 10 nucleotides) that isexactly complementary to a target RNA. Moreover, in some embodiments,the dsRNA agent specifically discriminates a single- nucleotidedifference. In this case, the dsRNA agent only mediates RNAi if exactcomplementary is found in the region (e.g., within 7 nucleotides of) thesingle-nucleotide difference.

In some embodiments, the term “oligonucleotide” refers to a nucleic acidmolecule (RNA or DNA) for example of length less than 100, 200, 300, or400 nucleotides.

In some embodiments, “antisense oligonucleotides” or “antisensecompound” is meant as an RNA or DNA molecule that binds to another RNAor DNA (target RNA, DNA). For example, if it is an RNA oligonucleotideit binds to another RNA target by means of RNA-RNA interactions andalters the activity of the target RNA. An antisense oligonucleotide canupregulate or downregulate expression and/or function of a particularpolynucleotide. The definition is meant to include any foreign RNA orDNA molecule which is useful from a therapeutic, diagnostic, or otherviewpoint. Such molecules include, for example, antisense RNA and DNAmolecules, interference RNA (RNAi), micro RNA, decoy RNA molecules,siRNA, enzymatic RNA, therapeutic editing RNA and agonist and antagonistRNA, antisense oligomeric compounds, antisense oligonucleotides,external guide sequence (EGS) oligonucleotides, alternate splicers,primers, probes, and other oligomeric compounds that hybridize to atleast a portion of the target nucleic acid. As such, these compounds maybe introduced in the form of single-stranded, double-stranded, partiallysingle-stranded, or circular oligomeric compounds.

In some embodiments, the term “oligonucleotide” refers to an oligomer orpolymer of ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) ormimetics thereof. The term “oligonucleotide”, also includes linear orcircular oligomers of natural and/or modified monomers or linkages,including deoxyribonucleosides, ribonucleosides, substituted andalpha-anomeric forms thereof, peptide nucleic acids (PNA), lockednucleic acids (LNA), phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate, and the like.Oligonucleotides are capable of specifically binding to a targetpolynucleotide by way of a regular pattern of monomer-to-monomerinteractions, such as Watson-Crick type of base pairing, Hoogsteen orreverse Hoogsteen types of base pairing, or the like.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide is “chimeric”, that is,composed of different regions. “Chimeric” oligonucleotides contain twoor more chemical regions, for example, DNA region(s), RNA region(s), PNAregion(s), etc. Each chemical region is made up of at least one monomerunit, i.e., a nucleotide in the case of an oligonucleotides compound.These oligonucleotides typically comprise at least one region whereinthe oligonucleotide is modified in order to exhibit one or more desiredproperties. The desired properties of the oligonucleotide include, butare not limited, for example, to increased resistance to nucleasedegradation, increased cellular uptake, and/or increased bindingaffinity for the target nucleic acid. Different regions of theoligonucleotide may therefore have different properties. Chimericoligonucleotides can be formed as mixed structures of two or moreoligonucleotides, modified oligonucleotides, oligonucleosides and/oroligonucleotide analogs.

The oligonucleotide can comprise or be composed of regions that can belinked in “register”, that is, when the monomers are linkedconsecutively, as in native DNA, or linked via spacers. The spacers areintended to constitute a covalent “bridge” between the regions and have,in some cases, a length not exceeding about 100 carbon atoms. Thespacers may carry different functionalities, for example, havingpositive or negative charge, carry special nucleic acid bindingproperties (intercalators, groove binders, toxins, fluorophores etc.),being lipophilic, inducing special secondary structures like, forexample, alanine containing peptides that induce alpha-helices.

In some embodiments, “ANGPTL7” and “angiopoietin like 7” are inclusiveof all family members, mutants, alleles, fragments, species, coding andnoncoding sequences, sense and antisense polynucleotide strands, etc. ofthe ANGPTL7 transcript (NM_021146; SEQ ID NO: 11085). In someembodiments, “ANGPTL7” and “angiopoietin like 7” are usedinterchangeably in the present application.

In some embodiments, “oligonucleotide specific for” or “oligonucleotidewhich targets” refers to an oligonucleotide having a sequence (i)capable of forming a stable complex with a portion of the targeted gene,or (ii) capable of forming a stable duplex with a portion of a mRNAtranscript of the targeted gene. Stability of the complexes and duplexescan be determined by theoretical calculations and/or in vitro assays.

In some embodiments, the term “target nucleic acid” encompasses DNA, RNA(including pre-mRNA and mRNA) transcribed from such DNA, and also cDNAderived from such RNA, coding, noncoding sequences, sense and antisensepolynucleotides. The specific hybridization of an oligomeric compoundwith its target nucleic acid interferes with the normal function of thenucleic acid. This modulation of function of a target nucleic acid bycompounds, which specifically hybridize to it, is generally referred toas “antisense”. The functions of DNA that are modulated include, forexample, replication and transcription. The functions of RNA that aremodulated, include all vital functions such as, for example,translocation of the RNA to the site of protein translation, translationof protein from the RNA, splicing of the RNA to yield one or more mRNAspecies, and catalytic activity which may be engaged in or facilitatedby the RNA. The overall effect of such interference with target nucleicacid function is modulation of the expression of an encoded product oroligonucleotides.

RNA interference “RNAi” is mediated by double stranded RNA (dsRNA)molecules that have sequence- specific homology to their “target”nucleic acid sequences. In certain embodiments, the mediators are 5-25nucleotide “small interfering” RNA duplexes (siRNAs). The siRNAs arederived from the processing of dsRNA by an RNase enzyme known as Dicer.siRNA duplex products are recruited into a multi-protein siRNA complextermed RISC (RNA Induced Silencing Complex). Without wishing to be boundby any particular theory, a RISC is then believed to be guided to atarget nucleic acid (suitably mRNA), where the siRNA duplex interacts ina sequence-specific way to mediate cleavage in a catalytic fashion.Small interfering RNAs can be synthesized and used. Small interferingRNAs for use in the methods herein suitably comprise between about 1 toabout 50 nucleotides (nt). In examples of non-limiting embodiments,siRNAs can comprise about 5 to about 40 nt, about 5 to about 30 nt,about 10 to about 30 nt, about 15 to about 25 nt, or about 20-25nucleotides.

In some embodiments, selection of appropriate oligonucleotides isfacilitated by using computer programs that automatically align nucleicacid sequences and indicate regions of identity or homology. Suchprograms are used to compare nucleic acid sequences obtained, forexample, by searching databases such as GenBank or by sequencing PCRproducts. Comparison of nucleic acid sequences from a range of speciesallows the selection of nucleic acid sequences that display anappropriate degree of identity between species. In the case of genesthat have not been sequenced, Southern blots are performed to allow adetermination of the degree of identity between genes in target speciesand other species. By performing Southern blots at varying degrees ofstringency, as is well known in the art, it is possible to obtain anapproximate measure of identity. These procedures allow the selection ofoligonucleotides that exhibit a high degree of complementarity to targetnucleic acid sequences in a subject to be controlled and a lower degreeof complementarity to corresponding nucleic acid sequences in otherspecies. One skilled in the art will realize that there is considerablelatitude in selecting appropriate regions of genes.

In some embodiments, “enzymatic RNA” is meant an RNA molecule withenzymatic activity. Enzymatic nucleic acids (ribozymes) act by firstbinding to a target RNA. Such binding occurs through the target bindingportion of an enzymatic nucleic acid which is held in close proximity toan enzymatic portion of the molecule that acts to cleave the target RNA.Thus, the enzymatic nucleic acid first recognizes and then binds atarget RNA through base pairing, and once bound to the correct site,acts enzymatically to cut the target RNA.

In some embodiments, “decoy RNA” is meant an RNA molecule that mimicsthe natural binding domain for a ligand. The decoy RNA thereforecompetes with natural binding target for the binding of a specificligand. For example, over-expression of HIV trans-activation response(TAR) RNA can act as a “decoy” and efficiently binds HIV tat protein,thereby preventing it from binding to TAR sequences encoded in the HIVRNA. This is meant to be a specific example Those in the art willrecognize that this is but one example, and some embodiments can bereadily generated using techniques generally known in the art.

In some embodiments, “monomers” typically indicates monomers linked byphosphodiester bonds or analogs thereof to form oligonucleotides rangingin size from a few monomelic units, e.g., from about 3-4, to aboutseveral hundreds of monomelic units. Analogs of phosphodiester linkagesinclude: phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, methylphosphornates,phosphoroselenoate, phosphoramidate, and the like, as more fullydescribed below.

In some embodiments, “nucleotide” covers naturally occurring nucleotidesas well as non-naturally occurring nucleotides. It should be clear tothe person skilled in the art that various nucleotides which previouslyhave been considered “non- naturally occurring” have subsequently beenfound in nature. Thus, “nucleotides” includes not only the known purineand pyrimidine heterocycles-containing molecules, but also heterocyclicanalogues and tautomers thereof. Illustrative examples of other types ofnucleotides are molecules containing adenine, guanine, thymine,cytosine, uracil, purine, xanthine, Aaminopurine, 8-oxo-N6-memyladenine,7-deazaxanthine, 7-deazaguanine, N4,N4-ethanocytosin, N6,N6- ethano-2,6-diaminopurine, 5-methylcytosine, 5-(C3-C6)-alkynylcytosine,5-fluorouracil, 5-bromouracil, pseudoisocytosine,2-hydroxy-5-memyl-4-triazolopvridin, isocytosine, isoguanin, inosine andthe “non-naturally occurring” nucleotides described in Benner et al,U.S. Pat No. 5,432,272. The term “nucleotide” is intended to cover everyand all of these examples as well as analogues and tautomers thereofEspecially interesting nucleotides are those containing adenine,guanine, thymine, cytosine, and uracil, which are considered as thenaturally occurring nucleotides in relation to therapeutic anddiagnostic application in humans. Nucleotides include the natural2′-deoxy and 2′- hydroxyl sugars, as well as their analogs.

In some embodiments, “analogs” in reference to nucleotides includessynthetic nucleotides having modified base moieties and/or modifiedsugar moieties. Such analogs include synthetic nucleotides designed toenhance binding properties, e.g., duplex or triplex stability,specificity, or the like.

In some embodiments, “hybridization” means the pairing of at leastsubstantially complementary strands of oligomeric compounds. Onemechanism of pairing involves hydrogen bonding, which may beWatson-Crick, Hoogsteen or reversed Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding, betweencomplementary nucleoside or nucleotide bases (nucleotides) of thestrands of oligomeric compounds. For example, adenine and thymine arecomplementary nucleotides which pair through the formation of hydrogenbonds. Hybridization can occur under varying circumstances.

In some embodiments, an antisense compound is “specificallyhybridizable” when binding of the compound to the target nucleic acidinterferes with the normal function of the target nucleic acid to causea modulation of function and/or activity, and there is a sufficientdegree of complementarity to avoid non-specific binding of the antisensecompound to non-target nucleic acid sequences under conditions in whichspecific binding is desired, i.e., under physiological conditions in thecase of in vivo assays or therapeutic treatment, and under conditions inwhich assays are performed in the case of in vitro assays.

In some embodiments, “stringent hybridization conditions” or “stringentconditions” refers to conditions under which a compound will hybridizeto its target sequence, but to a minimal number of other sequences.Stringent conditions are sequence-dependent and will be different indifferent circumstances and “stringent conditions” under whicholigomeric compounds hybridize to a target sequence are determined bythe nature and composition of the oligomeric compounds and the assays inwhich they are being investigated. In some cases, stringenthybridization conditions comprise low concentrations (<0.15M) of saltswith inorganic cations such as Na+or K+(i.e., low ionic strength),temperature higher than about 20° C. to 25° C. and below the Tm of theoligomeric compound/target sequence complex, and the presence ofdenaturants such as formamide, dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, orthe detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). For example, thehybridization rate decreases 1.1% for each 1% formamide. An example of ahigh stringency hybridization condition is 0.1× sodium chloride-sodiumcitrate buffer (SSC)/0.1% (w/v) SDS at 60° C. for 30 minutes.

In some embodiments, “complementary” refers to the capacity for precisepairing between two nucleotides on one or two oligomeric strands. Forexample, if a nucleobase at a certain position of an antisense compoundis capable of hydrogen bonding with a nucleobase at a certain positionof a target nucleic acid, said target nucleic acid being a DNA, RNA, oroligonucleotide molecule, then the position of hydrogen bonding betweenthe oligonucleotide and the target nucleic acid may be considered to bea complementary position. The oligomeric compound and the further DNA,RNA, or oligonucleotide molecule are complementary to each other when asufficient number of complementary positions in each molecule areoccupied by nucleotides which can hydrogen bond with each other. Thus,“specifically hybridizable” and “complementary” are terms which may beused to indicate a sufficient degree of precise pairing orcomplementarity over a sufficient number of nucleotides such that stableand specific binding occurs between the oligomeric compound and a targetnucleic acid.

The sequence of an oligomeric compound need not be 100% complementary tothat of its target nucleic acid to be specifically hybridizable.Moreover, an oligonucleotide may hybridize over one or more segmentssuch that intervening or adjacent segments are not involved in thehybridization event (e.g., a loop structure, mismatch or hairpinstructure). In some embodiments, oligomeric compounds disclosed hereincomprise at least about 70%, or at least about 75%, or at least about80%, or at least about 85%, or at least about 90%, or at least about95%, or at least about 99% sequence complementarity to a target regionwithin the target nucleic acid sequence to which they are targeted. Forexample, an antisense compound in which 18 of 20 nucleotides of theantisense compound are complementary to a target region, and wouldtherefore specifically hybridize, would represent 90 percentcomplementarity. In this example, the remaining noncomplementarynucleotides may be clustered or interspersed with complementarynucleotides and need not be contiguous to each other or to complementarynucleotides. As such, an antisense compound which is 18 nucleotides inlength having 4 (four) noncomplementary nucleotides which are flanked bytwo regions of complete complementarity with the target nucleic acidwould have 77.8% overall complementarity with the target nucleic acidand would thus fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Percentcomplementarity of an antisense compound with a region of a targetnucleic acid can be determined routinely using BLAST programs (basiclocal alignment search tools) and PowerBLAST programs known in the art.Percent homology, sequence identity or complementarity, can bedetermined by, for example, the Gap program (Wisconsin Sequence AnalysisPackage, Version 8 for Unix, Genetics Computer Group, UniversityResearch Park, Madison Wis.), using default settings, which uses thealgorithm of Smith and Waterman

In some embodiments, the term “Thermal Melting Point (Tm)” refers to thetemperature, under defined ionic strength, pH, and nucleic acidconcentration, at which 50% of the oligonucleotides complementary to thetarget sequence hybridize to the target sequence at equilibrium.Typically, stringent conditions will be those in which the saltconcentration is at least about 0.01 to 1.0 M Na ion concentration (orother salts) at pH 7.0 to 8.3 and the temperature is at least about 30°C. for short oligonucleotides (e.g., 10 to 50 nucleotide). Stringentconditions may also be achieved with the addition of destabilizingagents such as formamide.

In some embodiments, “modulation” means either an increase (stimulation)or a decrease (inhibition) in the expression of a gene.

In some embodiments, the term “variant”, when used in the context of apolynucleotide sequence, may encompass a polynucleotide sequence relatedto a wild type gene. This definition may also include, for example,“allelic,” “splice,” “species,” or “polymorphic” variants. A splicevariant may have significant identity to a reference molecule, but willgenerally have a greater or lesser number of polynucleotides due toalternate splicing of exons during mRNA processing. The correspondingpolypeptide may possess additional functional domains or an absence ofdomains. Species variants are polynucleotide sequences that vary fromone species to another. Of particular utility are variants of wild typegene products. Variants may result from at least one mutation in thenucleic acid sequence and may result in altered mRNAs or in polypeptideswhose structure or function may or may not be altered. Any given naturalor recombinant gene may have none, one, or many allelic forms. Commonmutational changes that give rise to variants are generally ascribed tonatural deletions, additions, or substitutions of nucleotides. Each ofthese types of changes may occur alone, or in combination with theothers, one or more times in a given sequence.

The resulting polypeptides generally will have significant amino acididentity relative to each other. A polymorphic variant is a variation inthe polynucleotide sequence of a particular gene between individuals ofa given species. Polymorphic variants also may encompass “singlenucleotide polymorphisms” (SNPs,) or single base mutations in which thepolynucleotide sequence varies by one base. The presence of SNPs may beindicative of, for example, a certain population with a propensity for adisease state, that is susceptibility versus resistance.

Derivative polynucleotides include nucleic acids subjected to chemicalmodification, for example, replacement of hydrogen by an alkyl, acyl, oramino group. Derivatives, e.g., derivative oligonucleotides, maycomprise non- naturally-occurring portions, such as altered sugarmoieties or inter-sugar linkages. Exemplary among these arephosphorothioate and other sulfur containing species which are known inthe art. Derivative nucleic acids may also contain labels, includingradionucleotides, enzymes, fluorescent agents, chemiluminescent agents,chromogenic agents, substrates, co factors, inhibitors, magneticparticles, and the like.

In some embodiments, a “derivative” polypeptide or peptide is one thatis modified, for example, by glycosylation, pegylation, phosphorylation,sulfation, reduction/alkylation, acylation, chemical coupling, or mildformalin treatment. A derivative may also be modified to contain adetectable label, either directly or indirectly, including, but notlimited to, a radioisotope, fluorescent, and enzyme label.

As used herein, the term “animal” or “patient” is meant to include, forexample, humans, sheep, elks, deer, mule deer, minks, mammals, monkeys,horses, cattle, pigs, goats, dogs, cats, rats, mice, birds, chicken,reptiles, fish, insects and arachnids.

“Mammal” covers warm blooded mammals that are typically under medicalcare (e.g., humans and domesticated animals) Examples include feline,canine, equine, bovine, and human, as well as just human

“Treating” or “treatment” includes the treatment of a disease-state in amammal, and includes: (a) preventing the disease-state from occurring ina mammal, in particular, when such mammal is predisposed to thedisease-state but has not yet been diagnosed as having it; (b)inhibiting the disease-state, e.g., arresting it development; and/or (c)relieving the disease-state, e.g., causing regression of the diseasestate until a desired endpoint is reached. Treating also includes theamelioration of a symptom of a disease (e.g., lessen the pain ordiscomfort), wherein such amelioration may or may not be directlyaffecting the disease (e.g., cause, transmission, expression, etc.). Theterm “treatment” is intended to encompass also prophylaxis, therapy andcure. The patient receiving this treatment is any animal in need,including primates, in particular humans, and other mammals such asequines, cattle, swine and sheep; and poultry and pets in general.

All genes, gene names, and gene products disclosed herein are intendedto correspond to homologs from any species for which the compositionsand methods disclosed herein are applicable. Thus, the terms include,but are not limited to genes and gene products from humans and mice. Itis understood that when a gene or gene product from a particular speciesis disclosed, this disclosure is intended to be exemplary only, and isnot to be interpreted as a limitation unless the context in which itappears clearly indicates. Thus, for example, for the genes disclosedherein, which in some embodiments relate to mammalian nucleic acid andamino acid sequences are intended to encompass homologous and/ororthologous genes and gene products from other animals including, butnot limited to other mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Insome embodiments, the genes or nucleic acid sequences are human

In some embodiments, the term “halo” refers to any radical of fluorine,chlorine, bromine or iodine. In some embodiments, the term “alkyl”refers to saturated and unsaturated non-aromatic hydrocarbon chains thatmay be a straight chain or branched chain, containing the indicatednumber of carbon atoms (these include without limitation propyl, allyl,or propargyl), which may be optionally inserted with N, O, or S. Forexample, Ci-Cio indicates that the group may have from 1 to 10(inclusive) carbon atoms in it. The term “alkoxy” refers to an —O-alkylradical. In some embodiments, the term “alkylene” refers to a divalentalkyl (i.e., —R—). The term “alkylenedioxo” refers to a divalent speciesof the structure -0-R-0-, in which R represents an alkylene. The term“aminoalkyl” refers to an alkyl substituted with an amino In someembodiments, the term “mercapto” refers to an —SH radical. The term“thioalkoxy” refers to an —S-alkyl radical.

In some embodiments, the term “aryl” refers to a 6-carbon monocyclic or10-carbon bicyclic aromatic ring system wherein 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 atomsof each ring may be substituted by a substituent. Examples of arylgroups include phenyl, naphthyl and the like. In some embodiments, theterm “arylalkyl” or the term “aralkyl” refers to alkyl substituted withan aryl. In some embodiments, the term “arylalkoxy” refers to an alkoxysubstituted with aryl.

In some embodiments, the term “cycloalkyl” as employed herein includessaturated and partially unsaturated cyclic hydrocarbon groups having 3to 12 carbons, for example, 3 to 8 carbons, and, for example, 3 to 6carbons, wherein the cycloalkyl group additionally may be optionallysubstituted. Cycloalkyl groups include, without limitation, cyclopropyl,cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclopentenyl, cyclohexyl, cyclohexenyl,cycloheptyl, and cyclooctyl.

In some embodiments, the term “heteroaryl” refers to an aromatic 5-8membered monocyclic, 8-12 membered bicyclic, or 1 1-14 memberedtricyclic ring system having 1-3 heteroatoms if monocyclic, 1-6heteroatoms if bicyclic, or 1-9 heteroatoms if tricyclic, saidheteroatoms selected from O, N, or S (e.g., carbon atoms and 1-3, 1-6,or 1-9 heteroatoms of N, O, or S if monocyclic, bicyclic, or tricyclic,respectively), wherein 0, 1 , 2, 3, or 4 atoms of each ring may besubstituted by a substituent. Examples of heteroaryl groups includepyridyl, furyl or furanyl, imidazolyl, benzimidazolyl, pyrimidinyl,thiophenyl or thienyl, quinolinyl, indolyl, thiazolyl, and the like. Insome embodiments, the term “heteroarylalkyl” or the term “heteroaralkyl”refers to an alkyl substituted with a heteroaryl. In some embodiments,the term “heteroarylalkoxy” refers to an alkoxy substituted withheteroaryl.

In some embodiments, the term “heterocyclyl” refers to a nonaromatic 5-8membered monocyclic, 8-12 membered bicyclic, or 11-14 membered tricyclicring system having 1-3 heteroatoms if monocyclic, 1-6 heteroatoms ifbicyclic, or 1-9 heteroatoms if tricyclic, said heteroatoms selectedfrom O, N, or S (e.g., carbon atoms and 1-3, 1-6, or 1-9 heteroatoms ofN, O, or S if monocyclic, bicyclic, or tricyclic, respectively), wherein0, 1, 2 or 3 atoms of each ring may be substituted by a substituent.Examples of heterocyclyl groups include trizolyl, tetrazolyl,piperazinyl, pyrrolidinyl, dioxanyl, morpholinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, andthe like.

In some embodiments, the term “oxo” refers to an oxygen atom, whichforms a carbonyl when attached to carbon, an N-oxide when attached tonitrogen, and a sulfoxide or sulfone when attached to sulfur.

In some embodiments, the term “acyl” refers to an alkylcarbonyl,cycloalkylcarbonyl, arylcarbonyl, heterocyclylcarbonyl, orheteroarylcarbonyl substituent, any of which may be further substitutedby substituents.

In some embodiments, the term “substituted” refers to the replacement ofone or more hydrogen radicals in a given structure with the radical of aspecified substituent including, but not limited to: halo, alkyl,alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heterocyclyl, thiol, alkylthio, arylthio,alkylthioalkyl, arylthioalkyl, alkylsulfonyl, alkylsulfonylalkyl,arylsulfonylalkyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, aralkoxy, aminocarbonyl, alkylaminocarbonyl, arylaminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aryloxycarbonyl, haloalkyl,amino, trifluoromethyl, cyano, nitro, alkylamino, arylamino,alkylaminoalkyl, arylaminoalkyl, aminoalkylamino, hydroxy, alkoxyalkyl,carboxyalkyl, alkoxycarbonylalkyl, aminocarbonylalkyl, acyl,aralkoxycarbonyl, carboxylic acid, sulfonic acid, sulfonyl, phosphonicacid, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic, and aliphatic. It is understoodthat the substituent can be further substituted.

Oligonucleotide Compounds and Compositions

Some embodiments refer to nucleic acid sequence information. In someembodiments, any uracil (U) may be interchanged with any thymine (T),and vice versa. For example, in an siRNA with a nucleic acid sequencecomprising one or more Us, in some embodiments any of the Us may bereplaced with Ts. Similarly, in an siRNA with a nucleic acid sequencecomprising one or more Ts, in some embodiments any of the Ts may bereplaced with Us. In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide such as ansiRNA disclosed herein comprises or consists of RNA. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide may comprise or consist of DNA.

Some embodiments refer to a particular nucleic acid sequence comprisingmodified nucleic acids. In some embodiments, an oligonucleotidedescribed herein comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequencecomprising an unmodified version of the nucleic acid sequence comprisingmodified nucleic acids. In some embodiments, an oligonucleotidedescribed herein comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequencecomprising the nucleic acid sequence comprising modified nucleic acids,but with any one or more additional modifications or differentmodifications.

In some embodiments, provided herein are oligonucleotide compounds thattarget a nucleic acid sequence of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7),including, without limitation, sense and/or antisense noncoding and/orcoding sequences associated with ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, thetarget nucleic acid molecule is not limited to ANGPTL7 polynucleotidesalone but extends to any of the isoforms, receptors, homologs,non-coding regions and the like of ANGPTL7.

In some embodiments, provided is a composition comprising one or moreantisense oligonucleotides or dsRNA agents targeted to a first nucleicacid and one or more additional antisense compounds targeted to a secondnucleic acid target. For example, the first target may be a particularsequence of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7), and the second target may bea region from another nucleotide sequence. In some embodiments,compositions may contain two or more antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAcompounds targeted to different regions of the same ANGPTL7 nucleic acidtarget. Numerous examples of antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAcompounds are illustrated herein and others may be selected from amongsuitable compounds known in the art. Two or more combined compounds maybe used together or sequentially.

In some embodiments, a composition is provided that includes a pluralityof antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent species. In someembodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent species hassequences that are non-overlapping and non-adjacent to another specieswith respect to a naturally occurring target sequence. In someembodiments, the plurality of antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agentspecies is specific for different naturally occurring target genes. Insome embodiments, the dsRNA agent is allele specific.

The disclosure provides methods, compositions, and kits, foradministration and delivery of antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agentsdescribed herein.

Compositions

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anoligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the composition comprises anoligonucleotide that targets ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, thecomposition consists of an oligonucleotide that targets ANGPTL7. In someembodiments, a composition described herein is used in a method oftreating a disorder in a subject in need thereof. Some embodimentsrelate to a composition comprising an oligonucleotide for use in amethod of treating a disorder as described herein. Some embodimentsrelate to use of a composition comprising an oligonucleotide, in amethod of treating a disorder as described herein. The composition (e.g.oligonucleotide composition) may comprise or consist of a dsRNA agentdescribed herein. The composition(e.g. oligonucleotide composition) maycomprise or consist of an siRNA described herein. The composition (e.g.oligonucleotide composition) may comprise or consist of an antisenseoligonucleotide described herein.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thattargets ANGPTL7 and when administered to a subject in an effectiveamount decreases ANGPTL7 mRNA levels in a cell or tissue. In someembodiments, the cell is a ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the tissue isANGPTL7 tissue. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levels aredecreased by about 2.5% or more, about 5% or more, or about 7.5% ormore, as compared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theANGPTL7 mRNA levels are decreased by about 10% or more, as compared toprior to administration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levelsare decreased by about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about 40% ormore, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about 80%or more, about 90% or more, or about 100% or more as compared to priorto administration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levels aredecreased by about 200% or more, about 300% or more, about 400% or more,about 500% or more, about 600% or more, about 700% or more, about 800%or more, about 900% or more, or about 1000% or more, as compared toprior to administration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levelsare decreased by no more than about 2.5%, no more than about 5%, or nomore than about 7.5%, as compared to prior to administration. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levels are decreased by no more than about10%, as compared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theANGPTL7 mRNA levels are decreased by no more than about 20%, no morethan about 30%, no more than about 40%, no more than about 50%, no morethan about 60%, no more than about 70%, no more than about 80%, no morethan about 90%, or no more than about 100% as compared to prior toadministration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levels aredecreased by no more than about 200%, no more than about 300%, no morethan about 400%, no more than about 500%, no more than about 600%, nomore than about 700%, no more than about 800%, no more than about 900%,or no more than about 1000%, as compared to prior to administration. Insome embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA levels are decreased by 2.5%, 5%,7.5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 200% 300%,400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1000%, or by a range defined by anyof the two aforementioned percentages.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thattargets ANGPTL7 and when administered to a subject in an effectiveamount decreases circulating ANGPTL7 protein levels. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by about 2.5% ormore, about 5% or more, or about 7.5% or more, as compared to prior toadministration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels aredecreased by about 10% or more, as compared to prior to administration.In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by about20% or more, about 30% or more, about 40% or more, about 50% or more,about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% ormore, or about 100% or more as compared to prior to administration. Insome embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by about 200%or more, about 300% or more, about 400% or more, about 500% or more,about 600% or more, about 700% or more, about 800% or more, about 900%or more, or about 1000% or more, as compared to prior to administration.In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by no morethan about 2.5%, no more than about 5%, or no more than about 7.5%, ascompared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7protein levels are decreased by no more than about 10%, as compared toprior to administration. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levelsare decreased by no more than about 20%, no more than about 30%, no morethan about 40%, no more than about 50%, no more than about 60%, no morethan about 70%, no more than about 80%, no more than about 90%, or nomore than about 100% as compared to prior to administration. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by no more thanabout 200%, no more than about 300%, no more than about 400%, no morethan about 500%, no more than about 600%, no more than about 700%, nomore than about 800%, no more than about 900%, or no more than about1000%, as compared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theANGPTL7 protein levels are decreased by 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 20%, 30%,40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 200% 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%,800%, 900%, 1000%, or by a range defined by any of the twoaforementioned percentages.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thattargets ANGPTL7 and when administered to a subject in an effectiveamount decreases a symptom of glaucoma. In some embodiments, theglaucoma symptom is decreased by about 2.5% or more, about 5% or more,or about 7.5% or more, as compared to prior to administration. In someembodiments, the glaucoma symptom is decreased by about 10% or more, ascompared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, the glaucomasymptom is decreased by about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about 40%or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about80% or more, about 90% or more, or about 100% or more as compared toprior to administration. In some embodiments, the glaucoma symptom isdecreased by no more than about 2.5%, no more than about 5%, or no morethan about 7.5%, as compared to prior to administration. In someembodiments, the glaucoma symptom is decreased by no more than about10%, as compared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theglaucoma symptom is decreased by no more than about 20%, no more thanabout 30%, no more than about 40%, no more than about 50%, no more thanabout 60%, no more than about 70%, no more than about 80%, no more thanabout 90%, or no more than about 100% as compared to prior toadministration. In some embodiments, the glaucoma symptom is decreasedby 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%,or by a range defined by any of the two aforementioned percentages. Insome embodiments, the glaucoma symptom is incidence of glaucoma, or of aglaucoma subtype. In some embodiments, the glaucoma symptom is severityof glaucoma, or of a glaucoma subtype. Examples of glaucoma subtypesinclude non-specific glaucoma, primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), andprimary angle closure glaucoma (PACG).

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thattargets ANGPTL7 and when administered to a subject in an effectiveamount decreases intraocular pressure. In some embodiments, theintraocular pressure is decreased by about 2.5% or more, about 5% ormore, or about 7.5% or more, as compared to prior to administration. Insome embodiments, the intraocular pressure is decreased by about 10% ormore, as compared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theintraocular pressure is decreased by about 20% or more, about 30% ormore, about 40% or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70%or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more, or about 100% or more ascompared to prior to administration. In some embodiments, theintraocular pressure is decreased by no more than about 2.5%, no morethan about 5%, or no more than about 7.5%, as compared to prior toadministration. In some embodiments, the intraocular pressure isdecreased by no more than about 10%, as compared to prior toadministration. In some embodiments, the intraocular pressure isdecreased by no more than about 20%, no more than about 30%, no morethan about 40%, no more than about 50%, no more than about 60%, no morethan about 70%, no more than about 80%, no more than about 90%, or nomore than about 100% as compared to prior to administration. In someembodiments, the intraocular pressure is decreased by 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%,10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%, or by a rangedefined by any of the two aforementioned percentages. Modificationpatterns

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a modification comprising a modified nucleoside and/or amodified internucleoside linkage, and/or (ii) the composition comprisesa pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a modification comprising a modifiednucleoside and/or a modified internucleoside linkage. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a modified internucleosidelinkage. In some embodiments, the modified internucleoside linkagecomprises alkylphosphonate, phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, or carboxymethyl ester, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the modified internucleosidelinkage comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages. Benefits of themodified internucleoside linkage may include decreased toxicity orimproved pharmacokinetics. The composition (e.g. oligonucleotidecomposition) may comprise or consist of a dsRNA agent described herein.The composition(e.g. oligonucleotide composition) may comprise orconsist of an siRNA described herein. The composition (e.g.oligonucleotide composition) may comprise or consist of an antisenseoligonucleotide described herein.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a modified internucleoside linkage, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 modified internucleoside linkages, or a rangeof modified internucleoside linkages defined by any two of theaforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises no more than 18 modified internucleoside linkages. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises no more than 20 modifiedinternucleoside linkages. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises 2 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 3 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 4 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, 5 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 6 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 7 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, 8 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 9 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 10 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, 11 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 12 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 13 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, 14 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 15 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 16 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, 17 or more modified internucleoside linkages, 18 or moremodified internucleoside linkages, 19 or more modified internucleosidelinkages, or 20 or more modified internucleoside linkages.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises the modified nucleoside. In some embodiments, the modifiednucleoside comprises a locked nucleic acid (LNA), hexitol nucleic acid(HLA), cyclohexene nucleic acid (CeNA), 2′- methoxyethyl, 2′-O-alkyl,2′-O-allyl, 2′-fluoro, or 2′-deoxy, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a LNA. In someembodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a 2′,4′ constrained ethylnucleic acid. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprisesHLA. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises CeNA. Insome embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a 2′-methoxyethylgroup. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a2′-O-alkyl group. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprisesa 2′-O-allyl group. In some embodiments, the modified nucleosidecomprises a 2′-fluoro group. In some embodiments, the modifiednucleoside comprises a 2′-deoxy group. In some embodiments, the modifiednucleoside comprises a 2′-O-methyl nucleoside, 2′-deoxyfluoronucleoside, 2′-O-N-methylacetamido (2′-O-NMA) nucleoside, a2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-O-DMAEOE) nucleoside, 2′-O-aminopropyl(2′-O—AP) nucleoside, or 2′-ara-F, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a 2′-O-methyl nucleoside.In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a 2′-deoxyfluoronucleoside. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises a2′-O-NMA nucleoside. In some embodiments, the modified nucleosidecomprises a 2′-O-DMAEOE nucleoside. In some embodiments, the modifiednucleoside comprises a 2′-O-aminopropyl (2′-O—AP) nucleoside. In someembodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises 2′-ara-F. In someembodiments, the modified nucleoside comprises one or more 2′fluoromodified nucleosides. In some embodiments, the modified nucleosidecomprises a 2′ O-alkyl modified nucleoside. Benefits of the modifiednucleoside may include decreased toxicity or improved pharmacokinetics.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 modifiednucleosides, or a range of nucleosides defined by any two of theaforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises no more than 19 modified nucleosides. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises no more than 21 modified nucleosides. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises 2 or more modifiednucleosides, 3 or more modified nucleosides, 4 or more modifiednucleosides, 5 or more modified nucleosides, 6 or more modifiednucleosides, 7 or more modified nucleosides, 8 or more modifiednucleosides, 9 or more modified nucleosides, 10 or more modifiednucleosides, 11 or more modified nucleosides, 12 or more modifiednucleosides, 13 or more modified nucleosides, 14 or more modifiednucleosides, 15 or more modified nucleosides, 16 or more modifiednucleosides, 17 or more modified nucleosides, 18 or more modifiednucleosides, 19 or more modified nucleosides, 20 or more modifiednucleosides, or 21 or more modified nucleosides.

In some embodiments, a hydrophobic moiety is attached to theoligonucleotide (e.g. a sense strand and/or an antisense strand of ansiRNA, or an ASO). In some embodiments, a hydrophobic moiety is attachedat a 3′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, ahydrophobic moiety is attached at a 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide.In some embodiments, the hydrophobic moiety comprises cholesterol.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a lipid attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of theoligonucleotide. In some embodiments, a lipid is attached at a 3′terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, a lipid isattached at a 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments,the lipid comprises cholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl,lithocholoyl, docosanoyl, docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl,or α-tocopherol, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thelipid comprises cholesterol.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises anarginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide. In some embodiments, theRGD peptide is attached at a 3′ terminus of the oligonucleotide. In someembodiments, the RGD peptide is attached at a 5′ terminus of theoligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the composition comprises a sensestrand, and the RGD peptide is attached to the sense strand (e.g.attached to a 5′ end of the sense strand, or attached to a 3′ end of thesense strand). In some embodiments, the composition comprises anantisense strand, and the RGD peptide is attached to the antisensestrand (e.g. attached to a 5′ end of the antisense strand, or attachedto a 3′ end of the antisense strand). In some embodiments, thecomposition comprises an RGD peptide attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus ofthe oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprisesan RGD peptide and a lipid attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of theoligonucleotide. In some embodiments, the RGD peptide comprisesCyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys). In some embodiments, the RGD peptidecomprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys). In some embodiments, the RGDpeptide comprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido). In some embodiments,the RGD peptide comprises an amino benzoic acid derived RGD. In someembodiments, the RGD peptide comprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), an aminobenzoic acid derived RGD, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the RGD peptide comprises multiple of such RGD peptides. For example,the RGD peptide may include 2, 3, or 4 RGD peptides.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a dsRNA agentdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises ansiRNA described herein. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises an antisense oligonucleotide described herein. In someembodiments, one or more nucleotides in the sense and/or antisensestrand of an antisense oligonucleotide, dsRNA agent, or siRNA, ismodified in accordance with any of the modifications or modificationpatterns described herein.

In some embodiments, a modification or modification pattern disclosedherein includes a cholesterol moiety.

dsRNA Agent

In some embodiments, the composition comprises a double-stranded RNAi(dsRNA) agent. In one aspect, provided herein is a dsRNA agent capableof inhibiting the expression of ANGPTL7. The dsRNA agent comprises asense strand and an antisense strand. In some cases, the sense strandcomprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412. In some cases,the antisense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%,95%, or 100% identical to the reverse complement of the sense strand. Insome cases, the antisense strand comprises a sequence at least about80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ IDNOS: 1-4412.

In some cases, each strand of the dsRNA agent can range from 12- 30nucleotides in length. For example, each strand can be between 14-30nucleotides in length, 17-30 nucleotides in length, 25-30 nucleotides inlength, 27-30 nucleotides in length, 17-23 nucleotides in length, 17-21nucleotides in length, 17-19 nucleotides in length, 19-25 nucleotides inlength, 19-23 nucleotides in length, 19-21 nucleotides in length, 21-25nucleotides in length, or 21-23 nucleotides in length.

The sense strand and antisense strand typically form a duplex dsRNA. Theduplex region of a dsRNA agent may be 12-30 nucleotide pairs in length.For example, the duplex region can be between 14-30 nucleotide pairs inlength, 17-30 nucleotide pairs in length, 25-30 nucleotides in length,27-30 nucleotide pairs in length, 17-23 nucleotide pairs in length,17-21 nucleotide pairs in length, 17-19 nucleotide pairs in length,19-25 nucleotide pairs in length, 19-23 nucleotide pairs in length, 19-21 nucleotide pairs in length, 21-25 nucleotide pairs in length, or21-23 nucleotide pairs in length. In another example, the duplex regionhas a length of about 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,and 27.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one or more overhangregions and/or capping groups at the 3′-end, or 5′-end, or both ends ofa strand. In some cases, the overhang is about 1-6 nucleotides inlength, for instance 2-6 nucleotides in length, 1-5 nucleotides inlength, 2-5 nucleotides in length, 1-4 nucleotides in length, 2-4nucleotides in length, 1-3 nucleotides in length, 2-3 nucleotides inlength, or 1-2 nucleotides in length. The overhang can be the result ofone strand being longer than the other, or the result of two strands ofthe same length being staggered. The overhang can form a mismatch withthe target mRNA or it can be complementary to the gene sequences beingtargeted or can be other sequence. The first and second strands can alsobe joined, e.g., by additional bases to form a hairpin, or by othernon-base linkers.

Described herein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anRNA interference (RNAi) agent. In some embodiments, the RNAi agent iscapable of inhibiting or modulating the expression of angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7). In some embodiments, the RNAi agent comprises a siRNAdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the RNAi agent comprises adouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA). In some embodiments, the dsRNA comprises asense strand and an antisense strand (such as a sense strand and/or anantisense strand described herein) In some embodiments, the antisensestrand is complementary to a portion of a nucleic acid having thenucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085. In some embodiments, theantisense strand is complementary to a portion of a nucleic acid havingthe nucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11086. In some embodiments, eachstrand has 14 to 30 nucleotides.

Described herein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anRNA interference (RNAi) agent capable of inhibiting or modulating theexpression of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7); wherein the RNAi agentcomprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and anantisense strand, the antisense strand being complementary to a portionof a nucleic acid having the nucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085,and each strand having 14 to 30 nucleotides.

Described herein, in some embodiments, are compositions comprising anRNA interference (RNAi) agent capable of inhibiting or modulating theexpression of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7); wherein the RNAi agentcomprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and anantisense strand, the antisense strand being complementary to a portionof a nucleic acid having the nucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11086,and each strand having 14 to 30 nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the one or more modifications confers nucleaseresistance upon the oligonucleotide (e.g. siRNA or antisenseoligonucleotide). In some embodiments, the modification pattern confersnuclease resistance upon the oligonucleotide (e.g. siRNA or antisenseoligonucleotide). For example, modification pattern 1S, 2S, 3S, 4S, 5S,1AS, 2AS, 3AS, 4AS, or ASO1 may confer nuclease resistance.

dsRNA Modifications

The modifications described herein in reference to dsRNA agents may beapplicable to antisense oligonucleotides described elsewhere herein. Themodifications described herein in reference to dsRNA agents may beapplicable to siRNA oligonucleotides described elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, one or more nucleotides in the sense and/orantisense strand of a dsRNA agent is modified. In some cases, everynucleotide in the sense strand and antisense strand of the dsRNA ismodified. The modifications on sense strand and antisense strand mayeach independently comprises at least two different modifications. Insome cases, not every nucleotide in the sense and antisense strand ismodified. In some cases, no nucleotide in the sense and/or antisensestrand is modified.

In some cases, the sense strand contains at least one motif of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, where at leastone of the motifs occurs at or near the cleavage site in the antisensestrand. In some cases, the antisense strand contains at least one motifof three identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides. Themodification pattern of the antisense strand may be shifted by one ormore nucleotides relative to the modification pattern of the sensestrand.

In some cases, the sense strand contains at least two motifs of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, when at leastone of the motifs occurs at the cleavage site in the strand and at leastone of the motifs occurs at another portion of the strand that isseparated from the motif at the cleavage site by at least onenucleotide. In some cases, the antisense strand contains at least onemotif of three identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides,where at least one of the motifs occurs at or near the cleavage site inthe strand and at least one of the motifs occurs at another portion ofthe strand that is separated from the motif at or near cleavage site byat least one nucleotide.

In some cases, the sense strand contains at least two motifs of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, where at leastone of the motifs occurs at the cleavage site in the strand and at leastone of the motifs occurs at another portion of the strand that isseparated from the motif at the cleavage site by at least onenucleotide. In some cases, the antisense strand contains at least onemotif of three identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides,where at least one of the motifs occurs at or near the cleavage site inthe strand and at least one of the motifs occurs at another portion ofthe strand that is separated from the motif at or near cleavage site byat least one nucleotide. In some cases, the modification in the motifoccurring at the cleavage site in the sense strand is different than themodification in the motif occurring at or near the cleavage site in theantisense strand.

In some cases, the sense strand contains at least one motif of three2′-F modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, where at least oneof the motifs occurs at the cleavage site in the strand. In some cases,the antisense strand contains at least one motif of three 2′-0-methylmodifications on three consecutive nucleotides.

In some cases, the sense strand comprises one or more motifs of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, where the oneor more additional motifs occur at another portion of the strand that isseparated from the three 2′-F modifications at the cleavage site by atleast one nucleotide. The antisense strand may comprise one or moremotifs of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides, where the one or more additional motifs occur at anotherportion of the strand that is separated from the three 2′-0-methylmodifications by at least one nucleotide. In some cases at least one ofthe nucleotides having a 2′-F modification may form a base pair with oneof the nucleotides having a 2′-0-methyl modification.

In some embodiments, if the dsRNA agent comprises an overhang, thenucleotides in the overhang region of the dsRNA agent can eachindependently be a modified or unmodified nucleotide. Non-limitingexamples of modifications include, but are not limited to, a 2′-sugarmodification, such as, 2-F 2′-Omethyl, thymidine (T), 2′-0-methoxyethyl-5-methyluridine (Teo), 2′-0-methoxyethyladenosine (Aeo),2′-0- methoxyethyl-5-methylcytidine (m5Ceo), and any combinationsthereof. For example, TT can be an overhang sequence for either end oneither strand. The overhang can form a mismatch with the target mRNA orit can be complementary to the gene sequences being targeted or can beother sequence.

In some embodiments, if the dsRNA agent comprises an overhang, the 5′-and/or 3′-overhang at the sense strand, antisense strand or both strandsof the dsRNA agent may be phosphorylated. In some embodiments, theoverhang region contains two nucleotides having a phosphorothioatebetween the two nucleotides, where the two nucleotides can be the sameor different. In some embodiments, the overhang is present at the 3′-endof the sense strand, antisense strand or both strands. In someembodiments, this 3′-overhang is present in the antisense strand. Insome embodiments, this 3′-overhang is present in the sense strand.

In some embodiments, the modified dsRNA agent comprises one or moremodified nucleotides including, but not limited to, 2′OMe nucleotides,2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro (2′F) nucleotides, 2′-deoxy nucleotides,2′-O-(2-methoxyethyl) (MOE) nucleotides, locked nucleic acid (LNA)nucleotides, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the modifieddsRNA agent comprises 2′OMe nucleotides (e.g., 2′OMe purine and/orpyrimidine nucleotides) such as, for example, 2′OMe-guanosinenucleotides, 2′OMe-uridine nucleotides, 2′OMe-adenosine nucleotides,2′OMe-cytosine nucleotides, or combinations thereof. In certaininstances, the modified dsRNA agent does not comprise 2′OMe-cytosinenucleotides. In some embodiments, the modified dsRNA agent comprises ahairpin loop structure.

In certain aspects, the modified dsRNA agent has an IC50 less than orequal to ten-fold that of the corresponding unmodified dsRNA (e.g., themodified dsRNA agent has an IC50 that is less than or equal to ten-timesthe IC50 of the corresponding unmodified dsRNA agent). In someembodiments, the modified dsRNA agent has an IC50 less than or equal tothree-fold that of the corresponding unmodified dsRNA agent. In someembodiments, the modified dsRNA agent has an IC50 less than or equal totwo-fold that of the corresponding unmodified dsRNA agent. It will bereadily apparent to those of skill in the art that a dose response curvecan be generated and the IC50 values for the modified dsRNA agent andthe corresponding unmodified dsRNA agent can be readily determined usingmethods known to those of skill in the art.

The modified dsRNA agent may have 3′ overhangs of one, two, three, four,or more nucleotides on one or both sides of the double-stranded region,or may lack overhangs (i.e., have blunt ends). In some cases, themodified dsRNA agent has 3′ overhangs of two nucleotides on each side ofthe double-stranded region. In certain instances, the 3′ overhang on theantisense strand has complementarity to the target sequence and the 3′overhang on the sense strand has complementarity to the complementarystrand of the target sequence. In some cases, the 3′ overhangs do nothave complementarity to the target sequence or the complementary strandthereof. In some embodiments, the 3′ overhangs comprise one, two, three,four, or more nucleotides such as 2′-deoxy(2′H) nucleotides. In somecases, the 3′ overhangs comprise deoxythymidine (dT) nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the modified dsRNA agent comprises from about 1% toabout 100% (e.g., about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%,50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%) modifiednucleotides in the double-stranded region of the dsRNA agent. In someembodiments, less than about 30% (e.g., less than about 30%, 25%, 20%,15%, 10%, or 5%) or from about 1% to about 30% (e.g., from about 1%-30%,5%-30%, 10%-30%, 15%-30%, 20%-30%, or 25%-30%) of the nucleotides in thedouble-stranded region of the dsRNA agent comprise modified nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent does not comprise phosphatebackbone modifications, e.g., in the sense and/or antisense strand ofthe double-stranded region. In some embodiments, the modified dsRNAagent does not comprise 2′-deoxy nucleotides, e.g., in the sense and/orantisense strand of the double-stranded region. In certain instances,the nucleotide at the 3′-end of the double-stranded region in the senseand/or antisense strand is not a modified nucleotide. In certaininstances, the nucleotides near the 3′-end (e.g., within one, two,three, or four nucleotides of the 3′-end) of the double-stranded regionin the sense and/or antisense strand are not modified nucleotides.

The dsRNA agent may have 3′ overhangs of one, two, three, four, or morenucleotides on one or both sides of the double-stranded region, or maylack overhangs (i.e., have blunt ends). In some cases, the dsRNA agenthas 3′ overhangs of two nucleotides on each side of the double-strandedregion. In some embodiments, the 3′ overhangs comprise one, two, three,four, or more nucleotides such as 2′-deoxy(2′H) nucleotides. In somecases, the 3′ overhangs comprise deoxythymidine (dT) nucleotides.

The dsRNA agent may also have a blunt end, located at the 5′-end of theantisense strand (or the 3′-end of the sense strand) or vice versa. Insome cases, the antisense strand of the dsRNA has a nucleotide overhangat the 3′-end, and the 5′-end is blunt. While not bound by theory, theasymmetric blunt end at the 5′-end of the antisense strand and 3′-endoverhang of the antisense strand may favor the guide strand loading intoRISC process.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent may also have two blunt ends, atboth ends of the dsRNA duplex.

In some embodiments, every nucleotide in the sense strand and antisensestrand of the dsRNA agent, including the nucleotides that are part ofthe motifs, may be modified. Each nucleotide may be modified with thesame or different modification which can include one or more alterationof one or both of the non-linking phosphate oxygens and/or of one ormore of the linking phosphate oxygens; alteration of a constituent ofthe ribose sugar, e.g., of the 2′ hydroxyl on the ribose sugar;wholesale replacement of the phosphate moiety with “dephospho” linkers;modification or replacement of a naturally occurring base; andreplacement or modification of the ribose-phosphate backbone. In someembodiments, fewer than all nucleotides in the sense and antisensestrand are modified.

As nucleic acids are polymers of subunits, in some cases, many of themodifications occur at a position which is repeated within a nucleicacid, e.g., a modification of a base, or a phosphate moiety, or anon-linking O of a phosphate moiety. In some cases the modification willoccur at all of the subject positions in the nucleic acid but in othercases it will not. By way of example, a modification may only occur at a3′ or 5′ terminal position, may only occur in a terminal region, e.g.,at a position on a terminal nucleotide or in the last 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10nucleotides of a strand. A modification may occur in a double strandregion, a single strand region, or in both. A modification may occuronly in the double strand region of a R A or may only occur in a singlestrand region of a RNA. For example, a phosphorothioate modification ata non- linking O position may only occur at one or both termini, mayonly occur in a terminal region, e.g., at a position on a terminalnucleotide or in the last 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 nucleotides of a strand, ormay occur in double strand and single strand regions, particularly attermini. The 5′ end or ends can be phosphorylated.

It may be possible, e.g., to enhance stability, to include particularbases in overhangs, or to include modified nucleotides or nucleotidesurrogates, in single strand overhangs, e.g., in a 5′ or 3′ overhang, orin both. For example, purine nucleotides may be included in overhangs.In some embodiments all or some of the bases in a 3′ or 5′ overhang maybe modified, e.g., with a modification described herein. Modificationscan include, e.g., the use of modifications at the 2′ position of theribose sugar with modifications that are known in the art, e.g., the useof deoxyribonucleotides, 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro (2′-F) or 2′-0-methylmodified instead of the ribosugar of the nucleobase, and modificationsin the phosphate group, e.g., phosphorothioate modifications. In somecases, overhangs need not be homologous with the target sequence.

In some embodiments, each residue of the sense strand and antisensestrand is independently modified with LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl,2′-O-methyl, 2′-0- allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-deoxy, or 2′-fluoro. Thestrands can contain more than one modification. In some embodiments,each residue of the sense strand and antisense strand is independentlymodified with 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro.

In some embodiments, at least two different modifications are present onthe sense strand and antisense strand. Those two modifications may bethe 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications, or others.

In some embodiments, the sense strand and antisense strand each containstwo differently modified nucleotides selected from 2′-0-methyl or2′-fluoro.

In some embodiments, each residue of the sense strand and antisensestrand is independently modified with 2′-0-methyl nucleotide,2′-deoxyfluoro nucleotide, 2 -O-N-methylacetamido (2′-0-NMA) nucleotide,a 2′-0-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-0- DMAEOE) nucleotide,2′-0-aminopropyl (2′-0-AP) nucleotide, or 2′-ara-F nucleotide.

The type of modifications contained in an alternating motif may be thesame or different. For example, if A, B, C, D each represent one type ofmodification on the nucleotide, the alternating pattern, i.e.,modifications on every other nucleotide, may be the same, but each ofthe sense strand or antisense strand can be selected from severalpossibilities of modifications within the alternating motif such as“ABABAB . . . ”, “AC AC AC . . . ” “BDBDBD . . . ” or “CDCDCD ,” etc.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises the modification patternfor the alternating motif on the sense strand relative to themodification pattern for the alternating motif on the antisense strandis shifted. The shift may be such that the modified group of nucleotidesof the sense strand corresponds to a differently modified group ofnucleotides of the antisense strand and vice versa. For example, thesense strand when paired with the antisense strand in the dsRNA duplex,the alternating motif in the sense strand may start with “ABABAB” from5′-3′ of the strand and the alternating motif in the antisense strandmay start with “BABABA” from 3′-5 of the strand within the duplexregion. As another example, the alternating motif in the sense strandmay start with “AABBAABB” from 5′-3′ of the strand and the alternatingmotif in the antisense strand may start with “BBAABBAA” from 3′-5 Of thestrand within the duplex region, so that there is a complete or partialshift of the modification patterns between the sense strand and theantisense strand.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises the pattern of thealternating motif of 2′-0-methyl modification and 2′-F modification onthe sense strand initially has a shift relative to the pattern of thealternating motif of 2′-0-methyl modification and 2′-F modification onthe antisense strand initially, i.e., the 2′-0-methyl modifiednucleotide on the sense strand base pairs with a 2′-F modifiednucleotide on the antisense strand and vice versa. The 1 position of thesense strand may start with the 2′-F modification, and the 1 position ofthe antisense strand may start with the 2′-O-methyl modification. Theintroduction of one or more motifs of three identical modifications onthree consecutive nucleotides to the sense strand and/or antisensestrand interrupts the initial modification pattern present in the sensestrand and/or antisense strand. This interruption of the modificationpattern of the sense and/or antisense strand by introducing one or moremotifs of three identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotidesto the sense and/or antisense strand may enhance the gene silencingactivity to the target gene.

The dsRNA agent may comprise at least one phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage. The phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification may occur on anynucleotide of the sense strand or antisense strand or both in anyposition of the strand. For instance, the internucleotide linkagemodification may occur on every nucleotide on the sense strand and/orantisense strand; each internucleotide linkage modification may occur inan alternating pattern on the sense strand or antisense strand; or thesense strand or antisense strand comprises both internucleotide linkagemodifications in an alternating pattern. The alternating pattern of theinternucleotide linkage modification on the sense strand may be the sameor different from the antisense strand, and the alternating pattern ofthe internucleotide linkage modification on the sense strand may have ashift relative to the alternating pattern of the internucleotide linkagemodification on the antisense strand.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA comprises the phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification in the overhangregion. For example, the overhang region comprises two nucleotideshaving a phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagebetween the two nucleotides. Internucleotide linkage modifications alsomay be made to link the overhang nucleotides with the terminal pairednucleotides within duplex region. For example, at least 2, 3, 4, or allthe overhang nucleotides may be linked through phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage, and optionally, there may beadditional phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages linking the overhang nucleotide with a paired nucleotide thatis next to the overhang nucleotide. For instance, there may be at leasttwo phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages between the terminal threenucleotides, in which two of the three nucleotides are overhangnucleotides, and the third is a paired nucleotide next to the overhangnucleotide. In some cases, these terminal three nucleotides may be atthe 3′-end of the antisense strand.

In some embodiments the sense strand of the dsRNA agent comprises 1-10blocks of two to ten phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16 phosphate internucleotide linkages, whereinone of the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages is placed at any position in the oligonucleotide sequence andthe said sense strand is paired with an antisense strand comprising anycombination of phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate and phosphateinternucleotide linkages or an antisense strand comprising eitherphosphorothioate or methylphophonate or phosphate linkage

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of two phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14, 15, 16, 17, or 18 phosphate internucleotide linkages, wherein one ofthe phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkages isplaced at any position in the oligonucleotide sequence and the saidantisense strand is paired with a sense strand comprising anycombination of phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate and phosphateinternucleotide linkages or an antisense strand comprising eitherphosphorothioate or methylphophonate or phosphate linkage

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of three phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16 phosphate internucleotide linkages, whereinone of the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages is placed at any position in the oligonucleotide sequence andthe said antisense strand is paired with a sense strand comprising anycombination of phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate and phosphateinternucleotide linkages or an antisense strand comprising eitherphosphorothioate or methylphophonate or phosphate linkage

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of four phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 or14 phosphate internucleotide linkages, wherein one of thephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkages is placedat any position in the oligonucleotide sequence and the said antisensestrand is paired with a sense strand comprising any combination ofphosphorothioate, methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotidelinkages or an antisense strand comprising either phosphorothioate ormethylphophonate or phosphate linkage

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of five phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12phosphate internucleotide linkages, wherein one of the phosphorothioateor methylphosphonate internucleotide linkages is placed at any positionin the oligonucleotide sequence and the said antisense strand is pairedwith a sense strand comprising any combination of phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotide linkages or an antisensestrand comprising either phosphorothioate or methylphophonate orphosphate linkage.

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of six phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 phosphateinternucleotide linkages, wherein one of the phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkages is placed at any position inthe oligonucleotide sequence and the said antisense strand is pairedwith a sense strand comprising any combination of phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotide linkages or an antisensestrand comprising either phosphorothioate or methylphophonate orphosphate linkage.

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of seven phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8phosphate internucleotide linkages, wherein one of the phosphorothioateor methylphosphonate internucleotide linkages is placed at any positionin the oligonucleotide sequence and the said antisense strand is pairedwith a sense strand comprising any combination of phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotide linkages or an antisensestrand comprising either phosphorothioate or methylphophonate orphosphate linkage.

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of eight phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkages separated by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 phosphateinternucleotide linkages, wherein one of the phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkages is placed at any position inthe oligonucleotide sequence and the said antisense strand is pairedwith a sense strand comprising any combination of phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotide linkages or an antisensestrand comprising either phosphorothioate or methylphophonate orphosphate linkage.

In some embodiments the antisense strand of the dsRNA agent comprisestwo blocks of nine phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages separated by about 1, 2, 3 or 4 phosphate internucleotidelinkages, wherein one of the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkages is placed at any position in theoligonucleotide sequence and the said antisense strand is paired with asense strand comprising any combination of phosphorothioate,methylphosphonate and phosphate internucleotide linkages or an antisensestrand comprising either phosphorothioate or methylphophonate orphosphate linkage.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one or morephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagemodification within 1-10 of the termini position(s) of the sense and/orantisense strand. For example, at least about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or10 nucleotides may be linked through phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage at one end or both ends of thesense and/or antisense strand.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one or morephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagemodification within 1-10 of the internal region of the duplex of each ofthe sense and/or antisense strand. For example, at least about 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 nucleotides may be linked through phosphorothioatemethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage at position 8-16 of the duplexregion counting from the 5′-end of the sense strand; the dsRNA canoptionally further comprise one or more phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification within 1-10 ofthe termini position(s).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one to fivephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagemodification(s) within position 1-5 and one to five phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification(s) withinposition 18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and oneto five phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagemodification at positions 1 and 2 and one to five within positions 18-23of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification within position 1-5 and onephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagemodification within position 18-23 of the sense strand (counting fromthe 5′-end), and one phosphorothioate internucleotide linkagemodification at positions 1 and 2 and two phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modifications within positions18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 and2 and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications withinpositions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 and2 and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications withinpositions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end). Insome embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 and2 and one phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification withinpositions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification within position 1-5 and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1and 2 and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modificationswithin positions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification within position 1-5 and one withinposition 18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 and2 and one phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification withinpositions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification within position 1-5 (counting fromthe 5′-end), and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkagemodifications at positions 1 and 2 and one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification within positions 18- 23 of theantisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 (counting fromthe 5′-end), and one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkagemodification at positions 1 and 2 and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within positions 18-23 of theantisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and one withinposition 18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1and 2 and one phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modificationwithin positions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1and 2 and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modificationswithin positions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications within position 1-5 and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification within position18-23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 and2 and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications withinpositions 18-23 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at position 1 and 2, and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at position 20and 21 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 andone at position 21 of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification at position 1, and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at position 21 ofthe sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1 and 2 and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 20and 21 the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at position 1 and 2, and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at position 21and 22 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 andone phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at position 21of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification at position 1, and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at position 21 ofthe sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1 and 2 and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 21and 22 the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at position 1 and 2, and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at position 22and 23 of the sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at positions 1 andone phosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at position 21of the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modification at position 1 , and onephosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modification at position 21 ofthe sense strand (counting from the 5′-end), and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage modifications at positions 1 and 2 and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkage modifications at positions 23and 23 the antisense strand (counting from the 5′-end).

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises mismatch(es) with thetarget, within the duplex, or combinations thereof. The mismatch canoccur in an overhang region or the duplex region. The base pair can beranked on the basis of their propensity to promote dissociation ormelting (e.g., on the free energy of association or dissociation of aparticular pairing, the simplest approach is to examine the pairs on anindividual pair basis, though next neighbor or similar analysis can alsobe used). In some cases, in terms of promoting dissociation: A:U ispreferred over G:C; G:U is preferred over G:C; and I:C is preferred overG:C (I=inosine). In some cases, mismatches, e.g., non-canonical or otherthan canonical pairings (as described elsewhere herein) are preferredover canonical (A:T, A:U, G:C) pairings; and pairings which include auniversal base are preferred over canonical pairings. In someembodiments, the dsRNA agent comprises at least one of the first 1, 2,3, 4, or 5 base pairs within the duplex regions from the 5′- end of theantisense strand can be chosen independently from the group of: A:U,G:U, I:C, and mismatched pairs, e.g., non-canonical or other thancanonical pairings or pairings which include a universal base, topromote the dissociation of the antisense strand at the 5′-end of theduplex.

In some embodiments, the nucleotide at the 1 position within the duplexregion from the 5′-end in the antisense strand is selected from thegroup consisting of A, dA, dU, U, and dT. In some embodiments, at leastone of the first 1, 2 or 3 base pair within the duplex region from the5′- end of the antisense strand is an AU base pair. For example, thefirst base pair within the duplex region from the 5′- end of theantisense strand is an AU base pair.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA agent is conjugated to one or morecarbohydrate moieties, which may optimize one or more properties of thedsRNA agent. In some cases, the carbohydrate moiety is attached to amodified subunit of the dsRNA agent. For example, the ribose sugar ofone or more ribonucleotide subunits of a dsRNA agent can be replacedwith another moiety, e.g., a non-carbohydrate (e.g., cyclic) carrier towhich is attached a carbohydrate ligand. A ribonucleotide subunit inwhich the ribose sugar of the subunit is so replaced is referred toherein as a ribose replacement modification subunit (RRMS). A cycliccarrier may be a carbocyclic ring system, i.e., all ring atoms arecarbon atoms, or a heterocyclic ring system, i.e., one or more ringatoms may be a heteroatom, e.g., nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur. The cycliccarrier may be a monocyclic ring system, or may contain two or morerings, e.g. fused rings. The cyclic carrier may be a fully saturatedring system, or it may contain one or more double bonds.

In some embodiments, a ligand is attached to the dsRNA via a carrier. Insome cases, the carriers include (i) at least one “backbone attachmentpoint” or two “backbone attachment points” and (ii) at least one“tethering attachment point.” In some cases, a “backbone attachmentpoint” refers to a functional group, e.g. a hydroxy 1 group, orgenerally, a bond available for, and that is suitable for incorporationof the carrier into the backbone, e.g., the phosphate, or modifiedphosphate, e.g., sulfur containing, backbone, of a ribonucleic acid. A“tethering attachment point” (TAP), in some embodiments, refers to aconstituent ring atom of the cyclic carrier, e.g., a carbon atom or aheteroatom (distinct from an atom which provides a backbone attachmentpoint), that connects a selected moiety. The moiety can be, e.g., acarbohydrate, e.g. monosaccharide, disaccharide, trisaccharide,tetrasaccharide, oligosaccharide and polysaccharide. Optionally, theselected moiety is connected by an intervening tether to the cycliccarrier. Thus, the cyclic carrier may include a functional group, e.g.,an amino group, or generally, provide a bond, that is suitable forincorporation or tethering of another chemical entity, e.g., a ligand tothe constituent ring.

In some embodiments the dsRNA agent is conjugated to a ligand via acarrier, wherein the carrier can be cyclic group or acyclic group; e.g.,the cyclic group is selected from pyrrolidinyl, pyrazolinyl,pyrazolidinyl, imidazolinyl, imidazolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperazinyl,[1,3]dioxolane, oxazolidinyl, isoxazolidinyl, morpholinyl,thiazolidinyl, isothiazolidinyl, quinoxalinyl, pyridazinonyl,tetrahydrofuryl and decalin; e.g., the acyclic group is selected fromserinol backbone or diethanolamine backbone. The dsRNA agent mayoptionally be conjugated to one or more ligands. The ligand can beattached to the sense strand, antisense strand or both strands, at the3′-end, 5′-end or both ends. For instance, the ligand may be conjugatedto the sense strand, in particular, the 3′-end of the sense strand.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA is modified to promote stability.Stabilization of synthetic siRNA, such as a dsRNA herein, against rapidnuclease degradation may be regarded as a prerequisite for in vivo andtherapeutic applications. This can be achieved using a variety ofstabilization chemistries previously developed for other nucleic aciddrugs, such as ribozymes and antisense molecules. These include chemicalmodifications to the native 2′-OH group in the ribose sugar backbone,such as 2′-O-methyl (2′OMe) and 2′-Fluoro (2′F) substitutions that canbe readily introduced into siRNA as 2′-modified nucleotides during RNAsynthesis. In some cases, the introduction of chemical modifications tonative siRNA duplexes can have a negative impact on RNAi activity,therefore the design of chemically modified siRNA may require astochastic screening approach to identify duplexes that retain potentgene silencing activity.

In some cases, when cleavage of the sense strand is inhibited, theendonucleo lytic cleavage of target mRNA is impaired In some cases,incorporation of a 2′-0-Me ribose to the Ago2 cleavage site in the sensestrand inhibits RNAi. In some cases, with regard to phosphorothioatemodifications, cleavage of the sense strand may be required forefficient RNAi.

In some cases, the dsRNA agent comprises 2′-F modified residues, e.g.,at the Ago2 cleavage site. The modification may or may not be motifspecific, e.g., one modification includes 2′-F modifications on allpyrimidines on both sense and antisense strands as long as pyrimidineresidue is present, without any selectivity.

In some cases, the dsRNA agent comprises two 2′-F modified residues,e.g., at the Ago2 cleavage site, on the sense and/or antisense strand.In some cases, for each particular strand, either all pyrimidines or allpurines are modified.

In some cases, the dsRNA agent comprises 2′- OMe modifications orvarious combinations of 2′-F, 2′-OMe and phosphorothioate modificationsto stabilize the siRNA. In some cases, the residues at the cleavage siteof the antisense strand are not be modified with 2′-OMe in order toincrease the stability of the siRNA.

siRNAs

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thattargets ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises a smallinterfering RNA (siRNA). In some embodiments, the composition comprisesan oligonucleotide that targets ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the siRNA comprises a double stranded agent describedherein.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the sense strand is 14-30 nucleosides in length. In someembodiments, the composition comprises a sense strange that is at leastabout 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,27, 28, 29, or 30 nucleosides in length, or a range defined by any ofthe two aforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the compositioncomprises an antisense strand is 14-30 nucleosides in length. In someembodiments, the composition comprises an antisense strange that is atleast about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24,25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 nucleosides in length, or a range defined byany of the two aforementioned numbers.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,each strand is independently about 14-30 nucleosides in length, and atleast one of the sense strand and the antisense strand comprises anucleoside sequence comprising about 14-30 contiguous nucleosides of afull-length human ANGPTL7 mRNA sequence such as SEQ ID NO: 11085. Insome embodiments, at least one of the sense strand and the antisensestrand comprise a nucleoside sequence comprising at least about 10, 11,12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,30, or more contiguous nucleosides of one of SEQ ID NO: 11085.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,each strand is independently about 14-30 nucleosides in length, and atleast one of the sense strand and the antisense strand comprises anucleoside sequence comprising about 14-30 contiguous nucleosides of afull-length human ANGPTL7 mRNA sequence such as SEQ ID NO: 11086. Insome embodiments, at least one of the sense strand and the antisensestrand comprise a nucleoside sequence comprising at least about 10, 11,12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,30, or more contiguous nucleosides of one of SEQ ID NO: 11086.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the sense strand and the antisense strand form a double-strandedRNA duplex. In some embodiments, the first base pair of thedouble-stranded RNA duplex is an AU base pair.

In some embodiments, the sense strand further comprises a 3′ overhang.In some embodiments, the 3′ overhang comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, or 10 nucleosides, or a range of nucleotides defined by any two ofthe aforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the 3′ overhangcomprises 1, 2, or more nucleosides. In some embodiments, the 3′overhang comprises 2 nucleosides. In some embodiments, the sense strandfurther comprises a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, the 5′ overhangcomprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 nucleosides, or a range ofnucleotides defined by any two of the aforementioned numbers. In someembodiments, the 5′ overhang comprises 1, 2, or more nucleosides. Insome embodiments, the 5′ overhang comprises 2 nucleosides.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand further comprises a 3′overhang. In some embodiments, the 3′ overhang comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 nucleosides, or a range of nucleotides defined by anytwo of the aforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the 3′ overhangcomprises 1, 2, or more nucleosides. In some embodiments, the 3′overhang comprises 2 nucleosides. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand further comprises a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, the 5′overhang comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 nucleosides, or arange of nucleotides defined by any two of the aforementioned numbers.In some embodiments, the 5′ overhang comprises 1, 2, or morenucleosides. In some embodiments, the 5′ overhang comprises 2nucleosides.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the siRNA binds with a 19mer in a human ANGPTL7 mRNA. In someembodiments, the siRNA binds with a 12mer, a 13mer, a 14mer, a 15mer, a16mer, a 17mer, a 18mer, a 19mer, a 20mer, a 21mer, a 22mer, a 23mer, a24mer, or a 25mer in a human ANGPTL7 mRNA.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the siRNA binds with a 17mer in a non-human primate ANGPTL7mRNA. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a 12mer, a 13mer, a14mer, a 15mer, a 16mer, a 17mer, a 18mer, a 19mer, a 20mer, a 21mer, a22mer, a 23mer, a 24mer, or a 25mer in a non-human primate ANGPTL7 mRNA.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the siRNA binds with a 19mer in a human ANGPTL7 mRNA, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a 12mer,a 13mer, a 14mer, a 15mer, a 16mer, a 17mer, and 18mer, a 19mer, a20mer, a 21mer, a 22mer, a 23mer, a 24mer, or a 25mer in a human ANGPTL7mRNA.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equalto 20 human off-targets, with no more than 2 mismatches in the antisensestrand. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNAand less than or equal to 10 human off-targets, with no more than 2mismatches in the antisense strand. In some embodiments, the siRNA bindswith a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equal to 30 humanoff-targets, with no more than 2 mismatches in the antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and lessthan or equal to 40 human off-targets, with no more than 2 mismatches inthe antisense strand. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a humanANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equal to 50 human off-targets, with nomore than 2 mismatches in the antisense strand. In some embodiments, thesiRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equal to 10 humanoff-targets, with no more than 3 mismatches in the antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and lessthan or equal to 20 human off-targets, with no more than 3 mismatches inthe antisense strand. In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a humanANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equal to 30 human off-targets, with nomore than 3 mismatches in the antisense strand. In some embodiments, thesiRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and less than or equal to 40 humanoff-targets, with no more than 3 mismatches in the antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA and lessthan or equal to 50 human off-targets, with no more than 3 mismatches inthe antisense strand.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA target sitethat does not harbor an SNP, with a minor allele frequency (MAF) greateror equal to 1% (pos. 2-18). In some embodiments, the MAF is greater orequal to about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%,about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, or about20%.

In some embodiments, the siRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA with nomore than 2 mismatches in the antisense strand. In some embodiments, thesiRNA binds with a human ANGPTL7 mRNA target site that does not harboran SNP, with a minor allele frequency (MAF) greater or equal to 1% (pos.2-18). In some embodiments, the sense strand and the antisense strandeach comprise a seed region that is not identical to a seed region of ahuman miRNA. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises a seedregion that is not identical to a seed region of a human miRNA. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises a seed region that is notidentical to a seed region of a human miRNA.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand. Insome embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises a nucleic acid sequence(e.g. a sense strand sequence or an antisense strand sequence). In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises a sense strand sequence. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises an antisense strandsequence. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises orconsists of sequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:1-4412, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412, atleast 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412, at least 90%identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412, or at least 95% identicalto of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the nucleicacid sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOs: 1-4412, or a nucleic acid sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412, or a nucleic acid sequence thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4412. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises an overhang described herein. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises on or more modifications ormodification patterns described herein.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of anyone of the siRNAs of siRNA subset A, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs ofsiRNA subset A. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises orconsists of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset B, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset B. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset C, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises orconsists of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset C. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset D, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs of siRNAsubset D. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consistsof any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset E, or an siRNA thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset E.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206, atleast 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206, at least 85%identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206, at least 90% identical toof any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206, or at least 95% identical to of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence comprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:1-2206, or a sense strand sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206, or a sense strand sequence thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-2206. In some embodiments, thesense strand comprises an overhang described herein. In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises on or more modifications ormodification patterns described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical, at least 80% identical, at least 85%identical, at least 90% identical, or at least 95% identical to of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192, or a sense strandsequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 7, 92,93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743,923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201,1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693,1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091,2095, 2099, or 2192, or a sense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises an overhang described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises or consists of a sensestrand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset A, or a sense strandthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises or consists of a sensestrand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset A. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises or consists of a sense strand of any one ofthe siRNAs of siRNA subset B, or a sense strand thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises or consists of a sense strand of any one ofthe siRNAs of siRNA subset B. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises or consists of a sense strand of any one of the siRNAs ofsiRNA subset C, or a sense strand thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand comprises or consists of a sense strand of any one of the siRNAsof siRNA subset C. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises orconsists of a sense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset D,or a sense strand thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprisesor consists of a sense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subsetD. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises or consists of asense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset E, or a sensestrand thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises or consistsof a sense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset E.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofthe sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11089, or a sense strand sequence thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of SEQ ID NO: 11089.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof sequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:2207-4412, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:2207-4412, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:2207-4412, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:2207-4412, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:2207-4412. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprisesor consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 2207-4412, or anantisense strand sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 2207-4412, or an antisense strand sequence thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 2207-4412. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises an overhang described herein. In someembodiments, the antisense strand comprises on or more modifications ormodification patterns described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof sequence at least 75% identical, at least 80% identical, at least 85%identical, at least 90% identical, or at least 95% identical to of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412,2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227,3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640,3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000,4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398. Insome embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists ofthe sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321,2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949,3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407,3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899,3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297,4301, 4305, or 4398, or an antisense strand sequence thereof having 1,2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323,2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129,3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630,3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968,3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301,4305, or 4398, or an antisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOs: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326,2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154,3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635,3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971,4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or4398. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises an overhangdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises onor more modifications or modification patterns described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises or consists of anantisense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subset A, or anantisense strand thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandcomprises or consists of an antisense strand of any one of the siRNAs ofsiRNA subset A. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises orconsists of an antisense strand of any one of the siRNAs of siRNA subsetB, or an antisense strand thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of any oneof the siRNAs of siRNA subset B. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset C, or an antisense strand thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of anyone of the siRNAs of siRNA subset C. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset D, or an antisense strand thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of anyone of the siRNAs of siRNA subset D. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of any one of thesiRNAs of siRNA subset E, or an antisense strand thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises or consists of an antisense strand of anyone of the siRNAs of siRNA subset E.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11090, or an antisense strand sequencethereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11090.

siRNA Modification Patterns

The oligonucleotides described herein (e.g. siRNAs, antisenseoligonucleotides, sense strands, antisense strands, siRNA agents, ordsRNA agents) may include any modification pattern disclosed herein,including but not limited to any one or more of modification patterns1S-5S, 1AS-4AS, or ASO1.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7 wherein the oligonucleotide comprisesa siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, wherein thesense strand comprises modification pattern 1S: 5′NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11381), wherein “Nf”is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments,the sense strand comprises modification pattern 2S: 5′nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11382), wherein “Nf” is a2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside,and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments, the sensestrand comprises modification pattern 3S: 5′nsnsnnNfnNfnNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11383), wherein “Nf” is a 2′fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ 0-methyl modified nucleoside,and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments, the sensestrand comprises modification pattern 4S: 5′NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11384),wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, and N comprisesa nucleoside. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprisesmodification pattern 5S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQID NO: 11385), wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a2′ 0-methyl modified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, andN comprises a nucleoside.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7 wherein the oligonucleotide comprisesa siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, wherein theantisense strand comprises modification pattern lAS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11386), wherein “Nf”is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments,the antisense strand comprises modification pattern 2AS: 5′nsNfsnnnNfnNfNfnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11387), wherein “Nf” is a2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside,and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises modification pattern 3AS: 5′nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11388), wherein “Nf” is a2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside,and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage. In some embodiments, theantisense strand comprises modification pattern 4AS: 5′nsNfsnNfnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11389), wherein “Nf” is a2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside,and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7 wherein the oligonucleotide comprisesa siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, wherein thesense strand comprises pattern 1S and the antisense strand comprisespattern 1AS, 2AS, 3AS, or 4AS. In some embodiments, the sense strandcomprises pattern 2S and the antisense strand comprises pattern 1AS,2AS, 3AS, or 4AS. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprisespattern 3S and the antisense strand comprises pattern 1AS, 2AS, 3AS, or4AS. In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises pattern 4S and theantisense strand comprises pattern 1AS, 2AS, 3AS, or 4AS. In someembodiments, the sense strand comprises modification pattern 1AS, 2AS,3AS, or 4AS. In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprisesmodification pattern 1S, 2S, 3S, 4S, or 5S. In some embodiments, thesense strand or the antisense strand comprises modification patternASO1.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a siRNA comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand,wherein the sense strand and/or the antisense strand comprises one ormore modifications or modification patterns. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a nucleic acid sequence (e.g. a sense strandsequence or an antisense strand sequence) with one or more modificationsor modification patterns.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11332, or asequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11332, or a sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the nucleicacid sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOs: 11093-11332. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence is anunmodified version of a nucleic acid sequence described herein. In someembodiments, the nucleic acid sequence has more or different sequencemodifications than a nucleic acid sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11333-11376, or asequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11376, or a sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the nucleicacid sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOs: 11333-11376. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence lacksthe sequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-13, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identicalthe sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table isbelow 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 1.In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relativeANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of anegative control in the table, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression ofthe siRNA in the table is below the expression of a negative control inthe table. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises orconsists of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 wherea relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.5, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relativeANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.5. In some embodiments, theoligonucleotide comprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table isbelow 0.25, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotidecomprises or consists of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below0.25. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises or consists ofan unmodified version of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide comprises orconsists of an siRNA with the nucleic acid sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, but with one or more additionalor different modifications, or with a different modification pattern. Insome embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence lacks the sequencemodifications, or has different or additional sequence modifications,but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand comprises a sense strand sequencewith one or more modifications or modification patterns. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of sequenceat least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, atleast 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, at least85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, at least 90%identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, or at least 95%identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, or a sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or4 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, or a sequence thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence is an unmodified version of a sense strandsequence described herein. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence has more or different sequence modifications than a sensestrand sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11333-11354, or asequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, or a sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQID NOs: 11333-11354. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencelacks the sequence modifications, or has different or additionalsequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence describedherein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-13, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sensestrand sequence of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence comprises or consists of a sequence at least 75% identical, atleast 80% identical, at least 85% identical, at least 90% identical, orat least 95% identical to a sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any ofTables 5-13.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables5-10. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table isbelow 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relativeANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of anegative control in the table, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 wherea relative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below theexpression of a negative control in the table. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequenceof any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where arelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.5, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below0.5. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table isbelow 0.25, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.25. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of an unmodified version of asense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of an siRNA with the sense strand sequence of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, butwith one or more additional or different modifications, or with adifferent modification pattern. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 5. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTL expression in thetable is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of thenegative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relative expressionlevel of 0.67), or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of thenegative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relative expressionlevel of 0.67). In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTL expression in the tableis below 0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.5. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.25, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.25. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of anunmodified version of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 5. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of an siRNA with the sense strand sequence of asense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5, butwith one or more additional or different modifications, or with adifferent modification pattern. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence is incorporated into ansiRNA that downregulates ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one ofSEQ ID NOs: 11094, 11095, 11096, 11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101,11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106, 11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118,11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124, 11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129,11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135, 11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144,11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149, 11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154,11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164,11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174,11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180, 11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185,11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199,11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205, 11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 11094,11095, 11096, 11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104,11105, 11106, 11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122,11123, 11124, 11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133,11134, 11135, 11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147,11148, 11149, 11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157,11158, 11159, 11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167,11168, 11169, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177,11178, 11180, 11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188,11189, 11191, 11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203,11204, 11205, 11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 6. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTL expression in thetable is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of thenegative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relative expressionlevel of 1.06), or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression of the siRNA in the table is below the expression of thenegative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relative expressionlevel of 1.06). In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTL expression in the tableis below 0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.5. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.25, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.25. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of anunmodified version of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 6. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of an siRNA with the sense strand sequence of asense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6, butwith one or more additional or different modifications, or with adifferent modification pattern. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 7. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTL expression at 1 nMin the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTLexpression at 1 nM in the table is below 1. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequenceof any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTLexpression at 1 nM of the siRNA in the table is below the expression ofthe negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relativeexpression level of 0.66), or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTLexpression at 1 nM of the siRNA in the table is below the expression ofthe negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below a relativeexpression level of 0.66). In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one ofthe siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTL expression at1 nM in the table is below 0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where therelative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM in the table is below 0.5 (e.g. ansiRNA with the sequence of ETD00245, ETD00247, or ETD00252). In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where therelative ANGPTL expression at 10 nM in the table is below 1, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7where the relative ANGPTL expression at 10 nM in the table is below 1.In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofan unmodified version of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 7. In some embodiments, the sense strandsequence comprises or consists of an siRNA with the sense strandsequence of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin Table 7, but with one or more additional or different modifications,or with a different modification pattern. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 8,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 8. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 9, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 9. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 10, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosedin Table 10. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 11. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at4 hours in the table is at least 50%, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where thepercent of the siRNA remaining at 4 hours in the table is at least 50%.In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 4 hours in the table is atleast 75%, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at4 hours in the table is at least 75%. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNAremaining at 24 hours in the table is at least 50%, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where thepercent of the siRNA remaining at 24 hours in the table is at least 50%.In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 24 hours in the table is atleast 75%, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at24 hours in the table is at least 75%. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of an unmodified version of asense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11. Insome embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of ansiRNA with the sense strand sequence of a sense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11, but with one or more additionalor different modifications, or with a different modification pattern. Insome embodiments, the sense strand sequence lacks the sequencemodifications, or has different or additional sequence modifications,but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 12,or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions,or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 12. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a sense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 13, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 13. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence lacks the sequence modifications,or has different or additional sequence modifications, but otherwise issimilar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists ofthe sequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00269, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00269. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of the sensestrand of siRNA ETD00270, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of the sensestrand of siRNA ETD00270. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNAETD00353, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNAETD00353. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00356, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00356. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00358, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00358. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of the sensestrand of siRNA ETD00370, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sensestrand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of the sensestrand of siRNA ETD00370. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNAETD00377, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNAETD00377. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00378, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises orconsists of the sequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00378. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00382, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the sense strand of siRNA ETD00382. In some embodiments, thesense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQ IDNO: 11377, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11377. In someembodiments, the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of SEQ ID NO: 11378, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the sense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQID NO: 11387. In some embodiments, the sense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand comprises a antisense strandsequence with one or more modifications or modification patterns. Insome embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists ofsequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11093-11212, or a sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212, or a sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11212. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence is an unmodified version of a antisense strand sequencedescribed herein. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence hasmore or different sequence modifications than a antisense strandsequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof sequence at least 75% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 80% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 85% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, at least 90% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, or at least 95% identical to of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequencecomprises or consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:11333-11354, or a sequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of anyone of SEQ ID NOs: 11333-11354, or a sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOs: 11333-11354. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-13, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequence of any one ofthe siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-13. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a sequence at least75% identical, at least 80% identical, at least 85% identical, at least90% identical, or at least 95% identical to a antisense strand sequenceof an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequencecomprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 1. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the tableis below the expression of a negative control in the table, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in anyof Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in thetable is below the expression of a negative control in the table. Insome embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.5. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10 where a relativeANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.25, or an siRNA thereof having1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in any ofTables 5-10 where a relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below0.25. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises orconsists of an unmodified version of a antisense strand sequence of anyone of the siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of an siRNA with theantisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequence of any one ofthe siRNAs disclosed in any of Tables 5-10, but with one or moreadditional or different modifications, or with a different modificationpattern. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 1. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where therelative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below theexpression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below arelative expression level of 0.67), or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where therelative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below theexpression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below arelative expression level of 0.67). In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.5. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5where the relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.25, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 5 where the relative ANGPTL expression in the tableis below 0.25. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequencecomprises or consists of an unmodified version of a antisense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of ansiRNA with the antisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequenceof any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 5, but with one or moreadditional or different modifications, or with a different modificationpattern. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence is incorporated intoan siRNA that downregulates ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOs: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220,11221, 11222, 11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236,11238, 11239, 11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248,11249, 11250, 11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263,11264, 11265, 11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273,11274, 11275, 11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283,11284, 11285, 11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293,11294, 11295, 11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304,11305, 11306, 11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318,11319, 11320, 11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or11332, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof SEQ ID NOs: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221,11222, 11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238,11239, 11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249,11250, 11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264,11265, 11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274,11275, 11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284,11285, 11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294,11295, 11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305,11306, 11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319,11320, 11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 6, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 1. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where therelative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below theexpression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below arelative expression level of 1.06), or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where therelative ANGPTL expression of the siRNA in the table is below theexpression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g. below arelative expression level of 1.06). In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTLexpression in the table is below 0.5, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6 where therelative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.5. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6where the relative ANGPTL expression in the table is below 0.25, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 6 where the relative ANGPTL expression in the tableis below 0.25. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequencecomprises or consists of an unmodified version of a antisense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of ansiRNA with the antisense strand sequence of a antisense strand sequenceof any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 6, but with one or moreadditional or different modifications, or with a different modificationpattern. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 7, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTLexpression at 1 nM in the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7where the relative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM in the table is below 1. Insome embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists ofa antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table7 where the relative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM of the siRNA in the tableis below the expression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g.below a relative expression level of 0.66), or an siRNA thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7where the relative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM of the siRNA in the tableis below the expression of the negative control siRNA in the table (e.g.below a relative expression level of 0.66). In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where therelative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM in the table is below 0.5, or ansiRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTL expression at 1 nM in thetable is below 0.5 (e.g. an siRNA with the sequence of ETD00245,ETD00247, or ETD00252). In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where the relative ANGPTL expressionat 10 nM in the table is below 1, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 7 where therelative ANGPTL expression at 10 nM in the table is below 1. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of anunmodified version of a antisense strand sequence of any one of thesiRNAs disclosed in Table 7. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of an siRNA with the antisense strandsequence of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 7, but with one or more additional or differentmodifications, or with a different modification pattern. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks the sequencemodifications, or has different or additional sequence modifications,but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 8, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 8. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 9, or an siRNA thereof having 1or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 9.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 10, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 10. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence lacks the sequence modifications, or has different oradditional sequence modifications, but otherwise is similar to asequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 11, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of thesiRNA remaining at 4 hours in the table is at least 50%, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 4 hours in thetable is at least 50%. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNAremaining at 4 hours in the table is at least 75%, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 4 hours in the table is atleast 75%. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprisesor consists of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 24hours in the table is at least 50%, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisensestrand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where thepercent of the siRNA remaining at 24 hours in the table is at least 50%.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 11 where the percent of the siRNA remaining at 24 hours in thetable is at least 75%, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strandsequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 11 where thepercent of the siRNA remaining at 24 hours in the table is at least 75%.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof an unmodified version of a antisense strand sequence of any one ofthe siRNAs disclosed in Table 11. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of an siRNA with the antisensestrand sequence of a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAsdisclosed in Table 11, but with one or more additional or differentmodifications, or with a different modification pattern. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks the sequencemodifications, or has different or additional sequence modifications,but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof a antisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed inTable 12, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the antisense strandsequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence of any oneof the siRNAs disclosed in Table 12. In some embodiments, the antisensestrand sequence comprises or consists of a antisense strand sequence ofany one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table 13, or an siRNA thereof having1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of aantisense strand sequence of any one of the siRNAs disclosed in Table13. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacks thesequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof the sequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00269, or an siRNAthereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consistsof the sequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00269. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00270, or an siRNA thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00270. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00353, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00353. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00356, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00356. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00358, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00358. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00370, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00370. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00377, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00377. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00378, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00378. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00382, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00382. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofthe antisense strand of siRNA ETD00752, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In someembodiments, the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of thesequence of the antisense strand of siRNA ETD00752. In some embodiments,the antisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence ofSEQ ID NO: 11379, or an siRNA thereof having 1 or 2 nucleosidesubstitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, theantisense strand sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQID NO: 11379. In some embodiments, the antisense strand sequence lacksthe sequence modifications, or has different or additional sequencemodifications, but otherwise is similar to a sequence described herein.

Antisense Compounds

In one aspect, provided herein is an antisense compound oroligonucleotide for modulating the activity and/or expression of atarget nucleic acid, e.g., ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, the antisensecompound inhibits expression of ANGPTL7. In some cases, the antisensecompound comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084. In somecases, the antisense compound comprises a sequence at least about 80%,85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO: 11087.

In some embodiments, the antisense compound is specifically hybridizableto the target nucleic acid, where binding of the compound to the targetnucleic acid interferes with the normal function of the target nucleicacid to cause, e.g., a loss of activity, and there is a sufficientdegree of complementarity to avoid non-specific binding of the antisensecompound to non-target nucleic acid sequences under conditions in whichspecific binding is desired. Such conditions include physiologicalconditions in the case of in vivo assays or therapeutic treatment, andconditions in which assays are performed in the case of in vitro assays.

In some embodiments, the antisense compounds include variants in which adifferent base is present at one or more of the nucleotide positions inthe compound. For example, if the first nucleotide is an adenine,variants may be produced which contain thymidine, guanosine, cytidine orother natural or unnatural nucleotides at this position. This may bedone at any of the positions of the antisense compound. These compoundsare then tested using the methods described herein to determine theirability to inhibit expression of a target nucleic acid.

In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity or complementarity,between the antisense compound and target is from about 50% to about60%. In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity orcomplementarity, is from about 60% to about 70%. In some embodiments,homology, sequence identity or complementarity, is from about 70% toabout 80%. In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity orcomplementarity, is from about 80% to about 90%. In some embodiments,homology, sequence identity or complementarity, is about 90%, about 92%,about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99% orabout 100%.

In some embodiments, an antisense compound, whether DNA, RNA, chimeric,substituted etc, is specifically hybridizable when binding of thecompound to the target DNA or RNA molecule interferes with the normalfunction of the target DNA or RNA, e.g., to cause a loss of utility, andthere is a sufficient degree of complementarily to avoid non-specificbinding of the antisense compound to non-target sequences underconditions in which specific binding is desired, i.e., underphysiological conditions in the case of in vivo assays or therapeutictreatment, and in the case of in vitro assays, under conditions in whichthe assays are performed.

In some embodiments, targeting of ANGPTL7 includes without limitation,antisense sequences which are identified and expanded, using forexample, PCR, hybridization etc., one or more of the sequences set forthas SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084, and the like (e.g., oligonucleotides havingat least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identity to a sequenceselected from SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084), to modulate the expression orfunction of ANGPTL7. In some embodiments, expression or function isdown-regulated as compared to a control oligonucleotide that does notspecifically hybridize to ANGPTL7.

In some embodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide comprises one or moremodified nucleotides, shorter or longer fragments, modified bonds andthe like. Examples of modified bonds or internucleotide linkagescomprise phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate or the like. In someembodiments, the nucleotides comprise a phosphorus derivative. Thephosphorus derivative (or modified phosphate group) which may beattached to the sugar or sugar analog moiety in the modifiedoligonucleotides may be a monophosphate, diphosphate, triphosphate,alkylphosphate, alkanephosphate, phosphorothioate and the like.

In embodiments, oligomeric antisense compounds, particularlyoligonucleotides, bind to target nucleic acid molecules and modulate theexpression and/or function of molecules encoded by a target gene. Thefunctions of DNA to be interfered comprise, for example, replication andtranscription. The functions of RNA to be interfered comprise all vitalfunctions such as, for example, translocation of the RNA to the site ofprotein translation, translation of protein from the RNA, splicing ofthe RNA to yield one or more mRNA species, and catalytic activity whichmay be engaged in or facilitated by the RNA. The functions may beup-regulated or inhibited depending on the functions desired.

The antisense compounds, include antisense oligomeric compounds,antisense oligonucleotides, external guide sequence (EGS)oligonucleotides, alternate splicers, primers, probes, and otheroligomeric compounds that hybridize to at least a portion of the targetnucleic acid. As such, these compounds may be introduced in the form ofsingle-stranded, double-stranded, partially single-stranded, or circularoligomeric compounds.

Targeting an antisense compound to a particular nucleic acid moleculecan be a multistep process. The process may begin with theidentification of a target nucleic acid whose function is to bemodulated. This target nucleic acid may be, for example, a cellular gene(or mRNA transcribed from the gene) whose expression is associated witha particular disorder or disease state. In some embodiments, the targetnucleic acid encodes angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7).

The targeting process may include determination of at least one targetregion, segment, or site within the target nucleic acid for theantisense interaction to occur such that the desired effect, e.g.,modulation of expression, will result. In some embodiments, the term“region” is defined as a portion of the target nucleic acid having atleast one identifiable structure, function, or characteristic. Withinregions of target nucleic acids are segments. “Segments” may be definedas smaller or sub-portions of regions within a target nucleic acid.“Sites” may be defined as positions within a target nucleic acid.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotides bind to the naturalantisense sequences of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) and modulate theexpression and/or function of ANGPTL7 (SEQ ID NO: 11085).

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotides bind to one or moresegments of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotides and modulatethe expression and/or function of ANGPTL7. In some cases, the segmentscomprise at least five consecutive nucleotides of the ANGPTL7 sense orantisense polynucleotides.

Since the translation initiation codon is typically 5′-AUG (intranscribed mRNA molecules; 5 -ATG in the corresponding DNA molecule),the translation initiation codon may be referred to as the “AUG codon,”the “start codon” or the “AUG start codon”. A minority of genes has atranslation initiation codon having the RNA sequence 5′-GUG, 5′-UUG or5′-CUG; and 5′-AUA, 5′-ACG and 5′-CUG have been shown to function invivo. Thus, in some cases, the terms “translation initiation codon” and“start codon” can encompass many codon sequences, even though theinitiator amino acid in each instance is typically methionine (ineukaryotes) or formylmethionine (in prokaryotes). Eukaryotic andprokaryotic genes may have two or more alternative start codons, any oneof which may be preferentially utilized for translation initiation in aparticular cell type or tissue, or under a particular set of conditions.In some embodiments, “start codon” and “translation initiation codon”refer to the codon or codons that are used in vivo to initiatetranslation of an mRNA transcribed from a gene encoding angiopoietinlike 7, (ANGPTL7), regardless of the sequence(s) of such codons. In somecases, a translation termination codon (or “stop codon”) of a gene mayhave one of three sequences, i.e., 5′-UAA, 5′-UAG and 5′-UGA (thecorresponding DNA sequences are 5′-TAA, 5′-TAG and 5′-TGA,respectively).

In some embodiments, the terms “start codon region” and “translationinitiation codon region” refer to a portion of such an mRNA or gene thatencompasses from about 25 to about 50 contiguous nucleotides in eitherdirection (i.e., 5′ or 3′) from a translation initiation codon. In somecases, the terms “stop codon region” and “translation termination codonregion” refer to a portion of such an mRNA or gene that encompasses fromabout 25 to about 50 contiguous nucleotides in either direction (i.e.,5′ or 3D from a translation termination codon. Consequently, the “startcodon region” (or “translation initiation codon region”) and the “stopcodon region” (or “translation termination codon region”) are allregions that may be targeted effectively with the antisense compoundsdescribed herein.

The open reading frame (ORF) or “coding region,” which refers to theregion between the translation initiation codon and the translationtermination codon, is also a region which may be targeted effectively.In some embodiments, a targeted region is the intragenic regionencompassing the translation initiation or termination codon of the openreading frame (ORF) of a gene.

Another target region includes the 5′ untranslated region (5′-UTR),which refers to the portion of an mRNA in the 5′ direction from thetranslation initiation codon, and thus including nucleotides between the5′ cap site and the translation initiation codon of an mRNA (orcorresponding nucleotides on the gene). Still another target regionincludes the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR), which refers to theportion of an mRNA in the 3′ direction from the translation terminationcodon, and thus including nucleotides between the translationtermination codon and 3′ end of an mRNA (or corresponding nucleotides onthe gene). The 5′ cap site of an mRNA comprises an N7-methylatedguanosine residue joined to the 5-most residue of the mRNA via a 5 -5′triphosphate linkage. The 5′ cap region of an mRNA is considered toinclude the 5′ cap structure itself as well as the first 50 nucleotidesadjacent to the cap site. Another target region is the 5′ cap region.

Although some eukaryotic mRNA transcripts are directly translated, manycontain one or more regions, known as “introns,” which are excised froma transcript before it is translated. The remaining (and thereforetranslated) regions are known as “exons” and are spliced together toform a continuous mRNA sequence. In some embodiments, targeting splicesites, i.e., intron-exon junctions or exon-intron junctions, isparticularly useful in situations where aberrant splicing is implicatedin disease, or where an overproduction of a particular splice product isimplicated in disease. An aberrant fusion junction due to rearrangementor deletion is another embodiment of a target site. mRNA transcriptsproduced via the process of splicing of two (or more) mRNAs fromdifferent gene sources are known as “fusion transcripts”. Introns can beeffectively targeted using antisense compounds targeted to, for example,DNA or pre-mRNA.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotides bind to codingand/or non-coding regions of a target polynucleotide and modulate theexpression and/or function of the target molecule.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotides bind to sensepolynucleotides and modulate the expression and/or function of thetarget molecule.

Alternative RNA transcripts can be produced from the same genomic regionof DNA. These alternative transcripts are generally known as “variants”.More specifically, “pre-mRNA variants” are transcripts produced from thesame genomic DNA that differ from other transcripts produced from thesame genomic DNA in either their start or stop position and contain bothintronic and exonic sequence.

Upon excision of one or more exon or intron regions, or portions thereofduring splicing, pre-mRNA variants produce smaller “mRNA variants”.Consequently, mRNA variants are processed pre-mRNA variants and eachunique pre-mRNA variant must always produce a unique mRNA variant as aresult of splicing. These mRNA variants are also known as “alternativesplice variants”. If no splicing of the pre-mRNA variant occurs then thepre-mRNA variant is identical to the mRNA variant.

Variants can be produced through the use of alternative signals to startor stop transcription. Pre-mRNAs and mRNAs can possess more than onestart codon or stop codon. Variants that originate from a pre-mRNA ormRNA that use alternative start codons are known as “alternative startvariants” of that pre-mRNA or mRNA. Those transcripts that use analternative stop codon are known as “alternative stop variants” of thatpre-mRNA or mRNA. One specific type of alternative stop variant is the“polyA variant” in which the multiple transcripts produced result fromthe alternative selection of one of the “polyA stop signals” by thetranscription machinery, thereby producing transcripts that terminate atunique polyA sites. In some embodiments, the types of variants describedherein are also embodiments of target nucleic acids.

In some embodiments, the locations on the target nucleic acid to whichthe antisense compounds hybridize are defined as at least a 5-nucleotide long portion of a target region to which an active antisensecompound is targeted.

While the specific sequences of certain exemplary target segments areset forth herein, one of skill in the art will recognize that theseserve to illustrate and describe particular embodiments. Additionaltarget segments are readily identifiable by one having ordinary skill inthe art in view of this disclosure.

Target segments 5-100 nucleotides in length comprising a stretch of atleast five (5) consecutive nucleotides selected from within illustrativetarget segments are considered to be suitable for targeting as well.

In some embodiments, target segments can include DNA or RNA sequencesthat comprise at least the 5 consecutive nucleotides from the5′-terminus of one of the target segments (the remaining nucleotidesbeing a consecutive stretch of the same DNA or RNA beginning immediatelyupstream of the terminus of the target segment and continuing until theDNA or RNA contains about 5 to about 100 nucleotides). In some cases,target segments are represented by DNA or RNA sequences that comprise atleast the 5 consecutive nucleotides from the 3′-terminus of one of thetarget segments (the remaining nucleotides being a consecutive stretchof the same DNA or RNA beginning immediately downstream of the3′-terminus of the target segment and continuing until the DNA or RNAcontains about 5 to about 100 nucleotides).

Once one or more target regions, segments or sites are identified,antisense compounds are chosen which are sufficiently complementary tothe target, i.e., hybridize sufficiently well and with sufficientspecificity, to give the desired effect.

Antisense compounds include antisense oligonucleotides, ribozymes,external guide sequence (EGS) oligonucleotides, siRNA compounds, single-or double-stranded RNA interference (RNAi) compounds such as siRNAcompounds, and other oligomeric compounds which hybridize to at least aportion of the target nucleic acid and modulate its function. As such,they may be DNA, RNA, DNA-like, RNA-like, or mixtures thereof, or may bemimetics of one or more of these. These compounds may besingle-stranded, double-stranded, circular or hairpin oligomericcompounds and may contain structural elements such as internal orterminal bulges, mismatches or loops. Antisense compounds are routinelyprepared linearly but can be joined or otherwise prepared to be circularand/or branched. Antisense compounds can include constructs such as, forexample, two strands hybridized to form a wholly or partiallydouble-stranded compound or a single strand with sufficient self-complementarity to allow for hybridization and formation of a fully orpartially double-stranded compound. The two strands can be linkedinternally leaving free 3′ or 5′ termini or can be linked to form acontinuous hairpin structure or loop. The hairpin structure may containan overhang on either the 5′ or 3′ terminus producing an extension ofsingle stranded character. The double stranded compounds optionally caninclude overhangs on the ends. Further modifications can includeconjugate groups attached to one of the termini, selected nucleotidepositions, sugar positions or to one of the internucleoside linkages. Insome cases, the two strands can be linked via a non-nucleic acid moietyor linker group. When formed from only one strand, dsRNA can take theform of a self-complementary hairpin-type molecule that doubles back onitself to form a duplex. Thus, the dsRNAs can be fully or partiallydouble stranded. Specific modulation of gene expression can be achievedby stable expression of dsRNA hairpins in transgenic cell lines,however, in some embodiments, the gene expression or function is upregulated. When formed from two strands, or a single strand that takesthe form of a self-complementary hairpin-type molecule doubled back onitself to form a duplex, the two strands (or duplex-forming regions of asingle strand) are complementary RNA strands that base pair inWatson-Crick fashion.

Once introduced to a system, the compounds may elicit the action of oneor more enzymes or structural proteins to effect cleavage or othermodification of the target nucleic acid or may work via occupancy-basedmechanisms. In general, nucleic acids (including oligonucleotides) maybe described as “DNA-like” (i.e., generally having one or more 2′-deoxysugars and, generally, T rather than U bases) or “RNA-like” (i.e.,generally having one or more 2′- hydroxyl or 2′-modified sugars and,generally U rather than T bases). Nucleic acid helices can adopt morethan one type of structure, most commonly the A- and B-forms. It isbelieved that, in general, oligonucleotides which have B-form-likestructure are “DNA-like” and those which have A-form-like structure are“RNA-like.” In some (chimeric) embodiments, an antisense compound maycontain both A- and B-form regions.

In some embodiments, the desired oligonucleotides or antisensecompounds, comprise at least one of: antisense RNA, antisense DNA,chimeric antisense oligonucleotides, antisense oligonucleotidescomprising modified linkages, interference RNA (RNAi), short interferingRNA (siRNA); a micro, interfering RNA (miRNA); a small, temporal RNA(stRNA); or a short, hairpin RNA (shRNA); small RNA-induced geneactivation (RNAa); small activating RNAs (saRNAs), or combinationsthereof.

In some embodiments, the “target segments” identified herein may beemployed in a screen for additional compounds that modulate theexpression of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotides.“Modulators” are those compounds that decrease or increase theexpression of a nucleic acid molecule encoding ANGPTL7 and whichcomprise at least a 5-nucleotide portion that is complementary to atarget segment. The screening method comprises the steps of contacting atarget segment of a nucleic acid molecule encoding sense or naturalantisense polynucleotides of ANGPTL7 with one or more candidatemodulators, and selecting for one or more candidate modulators whichdecrease or increase the expression of a nucleic acid molecule encodingANGPTL7 polynucleotides. Once it is shown that the candidate modulatoror modulators are capable of modulating (e.g. either decreasing orincreasing) the expression of a nucleic acid molecule encoding ANGPTL7polynucleotides, the modulator may then be employed in furtherinvestigative studies of the function of ANGPTL7 polynucleotides, or foruse as a research, diagnostic, or therapeutic agent.

The target segments may be also be combined with their respectivecomplementary antisense compounds to form stabilized double-stranded(duplexed) oligonucleotides.

Such double stranded oligonucleotide moieties modulate target expressionand regulate translation as well as RNA processing via an antisensemechanism. Moreover, the double-stranded moieties may be subject tochemical modifications. For example, such double-stranded moietiesinhibit the target by the classical hybridization of antisense strand ofthe duplex to the target, thereby triggering enzymatic degradation ofthe target.

In some embodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide targets angiopoietinlike 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotides (e.g. accession number NM_021146),variants, alleles, isoforms, homologs, mutants, derivatives, fragmentsand complementary sequences thereto. In some cases, the oligonucleotideis an antisense molecule.

In some embodiments, the target nucleic acid molecule is not limited toANGPTL7 alone but extends to any of the isoforms, receptors, homologsand the like of ANGPTL7 molecules.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides are complementary to or bindto nucleic acid sequences of ANGPTL7 transcripts and modulate expressionand/or function of ANGPTL7 molecules.

In some embodiments, oligonucleotides comprise sequences of at least 5consecutive nucleotides of to modulate expression and/or function ofANGPTL7 molecules.

The polynucleotide targets comprise ANGPTL7, including family membersthereof, variants of ANGPTL7; mutants of ANGPTL7, including SNPs;noncoding sequences of ANGPTL7; alleles of ANGPTL7; species variants,fragments and the like. In some cases, the oligonucleotide is anantisense molecule.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotide targeting ANGPTL7polynucleotides, comprise: antisense RNA, interference RNA (RNAi), shortinterfering RNA (siRNA); micro interfering RNA (miRNA); a small,temporal RNA (stRNA); or a short, hairpin RNA (shRNA); small RNA-inducedgene activation (RNAa); or, small activating RNA (saRNA). In someembodiments, the siRNA comprises one or more sequences selected from SEQID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the siRNA comprises a sequencecomprising the reverse complement of a sequence selected from SEQ IDNOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the siRNA comprises a sequence havingat least about 85%, 90%, or 95% homology to a sequence selected from SEQID NOS: 1-4412. In some embodiments, the siRNA comprises a sequencehaving at least about 85%, 90%, or 95% identity to a sequence selectedfrom SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

In some embodiments, targeting of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotides, e.g. SEQ ID NO: 11085, modulate the expression orfunction of this target. In some embodiments, expression or function isdown-regulated as compared to a control.

In some embodiments, targeting of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotides, e.g. SEQ ID NO 11086, modulate the expression orfunction of this target. In some embodiments, expression or function isdown-regulated as compared to a control.

In some embodiments, provided are antisense compounds. Theseoligonucleotides can comprise one or more modified nucleotides, shorteror longer fragments, modified bonds and the like. In some embodiments,antisense compounds comprise sequences set forth as SEQ ID NOS:4413-11084. In some cases, the antisense compound comprises a sequenceat least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:11087.

In some embodiments, an antisense compound comprises one or more LNAnucleotides.

In some embodiments, an antisense compound comprises one or more UNAnucleotides.

In some embodiments, an antisense compound comprises one or more GNAnucleotides.

The antisense compounds can comprise an antisense portion from about 5to about 80 nucleotides (i.e. from about 5 to about 80 linkednucleosides) in length. This refers to the length of the antisensestrand or portion of the antisense compound. In other words, asingle-stranded antisense compound may comprise from 5 to about 80nucleotides, and a double-stranded antisense compound (such as a dsRNA,for example) may comprise a sense and an antisense strand or portion of5 to about 80 nucleotides in length. One of ordinary skill in the artwill appreciate that this comprehends antisense portions of about 5, 6,7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43,44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79,or 80 nucleotides in length, or any range there within.

In some embodiments, the antisense compounds have antisense portions of10 to 50 nucleotides in length. One having ordinary skill in the artwill appreciate that this embodies oligonucleotides having antisenseportions of about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40,41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 nucleotides in length, or anyrange there within. In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides are 15nucleotides in length.

In some embodiments, the antisense or oligonucleotide compounds haveantisense portions of about 12 or 13 to 30 nucleotides in length. Onehaving ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that this embodiesantisense compounds having antisense portions of about 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 or 30 nucleotidesin length, or any range there within.

In some embodiments, the oligomeric compounds also include variants inwhich a different base is present at one or more of the nucleotidepositions in the compound. For example, if the first nucleotide is anadenosine, variants may be produced which contain thymidine, guanosineor cytidine at this position. This may be done at any of the positionsof the antisense or dsRNA compounds. These compounds are then testedusing the methods described herein to determine their ability to inhibitexpression of a target nucleic acid.

In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity or complementarity,between the antisense compound and target is from about 40% to about60%. In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity orcomplementarity, is from about 60% to about 70%. In some embodiments,homology, sequence identity or complementarity, is from about 70% toabout 80%. In some embodiments, homology, sequence identity orcomplementarity, is from about 80% to about 90%. In some embodiments,homology, sequence identity or complementarity, is about 90%, about 92%,about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99% orabout 100%.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotides, such as forexample, nucleic acid molecules set forth in SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084comprise one or more substitutions or modifications. In someembodiments, the nucleotides are substituted with locked nucleic acids(LNA). In some cases, the antisense compound comprises a sequence atleast about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO: 11087.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides target one or more regions ofthe nucleic acid molecules sense and/or antisense of coding and/ornon-coding sequences associated with ANGPTL7 and the sequences set forthas SEQ ID NO: 11085.

In some embodiments, oligonucleotides disclosed herein are chimericoligonucleotides. “Chimeric oligonucleotides” or “chimeras,” areoligonucleotides which contain two or more chemically distinct regions,each made up of at least one nucleotide. These oligonucleotidestypically contain at least one region of modified nucleotides thatconfers one or more beneficial properties (such as, for example,increased nuclease resistance, increased uptake into cells, increasedbinding affinity for the target) and a region that is a substrate forenzymes capable of cleaving RNA:DNA or RNA:RNA hybrids. By way ofexample, RNase H is a cellular endonuclease which cleaves the RNA strandof an RNA:DNA duplex. Activation of RNase H, therefore, results incleavage of the RNA target, thereby greatly enhancing the efficiency ofantisense modulation of gene expression. Consequently, comparableresults can often be obtained with shorter oligonucleotides whenchimeric oligonucleotides are used, compared to phosphorothioatedeoxyoligonucleotides hybridizing to the same target region. Cleavage ofthe RNA target can be routinely detected by gel electrophoresis and, ifnecessary, associated nucleic acid hybridization techniques known in theart. In some embodiments, a chimeric oligonucleotide comprises at leastone region modified to increase target binding affinity, and, usually, aregion that acts as a substrate for RNAse H. Affinity of anoligonucleotide for its target (in this case, a nucleic acid encodingras) is routinely determined by measuring the Tm of an oligonucleotidetarget pair, which is the temperature at which the oligonucleotide andtarget dissociate; dissociation is detected spectrophotometrically. Thehigher the Tm, the greater is the affinity of the oligonucleotide forthe target.

Chimeric antisense compounds may be formed as composite structures oftwo or more oligonucleotides, modified oligonucleotides,oligonucleotides and/or oligonucleotides mimetics as described above.Such compounds may also be referred to as hybrids or gapmers.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO). In some embodiments, theASO is 12-30 nucleosides in length. In some embodiments, the ASO is14-30 nucleosides in length. In some embodiments, the ASO is at leastabout 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,27, 28, 29, or 30 nucleosides in length, or a range defined by any ofthe two aforementioned numbers. In some embodiments, the ASO is 15-25nucleosides in length. In some embodiments, the ASO is 20 nucleosides inlength.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) about 12-30 nucleosides inlength and comprising a nucleoside sequence comprising about 12-30contiguous nucleosides of a full-length human ANGPTL7 mRNA sequence suchas SEQ ID NO: 11085; wherein (i) the oligonucleotide comprises amodification comprising a modified nucleoside and/or a modifiedinternucleoside linkage, and/or (ii) the composition comprises apharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an ASO about 12-30 nucleosides in length and comprising anucleoside sequence comprising about 12-30 contiguous nucleosides of afull-length human ANGPTL7 mRNA sequence such as SEQ ID NO: 11086;wherein (i) the oligonucleotide comprises a modification comprising amodified nucleoside and/or a modified internucleoside linkage, and/or(ii) the composition comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an ASO. In some embodiments, the ASO comprises an ASOsequence. In some embodiments, the ASO sequence comprises or consists ofthe sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 4413-11084, or a nucleic acidsequence thereof having 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the ASO sequence comprisesor consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 4413-11084, or anucleic acid sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions. In some embodiments, the ASO sequence comprisesor consists of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 4413-11084. Insome embodiments, the ASO sequence comprises or consists of the sequenceof SEQ ID NO: 11087, or a nucleic acid sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions. In some embodiments,the ASO sequence comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQ ID NO:11087. In some embodiments, the ASO comprises on or more modificationsor modification patterns described herein.

Antisense Compound Modifications

In some embodiments, one or more nucleotides in an antisense compoundare modified. The modifications described herein in reference toantisense compounds may be applicable to dsRNA agents or siRNAs.

In some embodiments, the region of the oligonucleotide which is modifiedcomprises at least one nucleotide modified at the 2′ position of thesugar, e.g., a 2′-0-alkyl, 2,-0-alkyl-0-alkyl or 2′-fluoro-modifiednucleotide. In some embodiments, RNA modifications include 2′-fluoro,2′-amino and 2′ O-methyl modifications on the ribose of pyrimidines,abasic residues or an inverted base at the 3′ end of the RNA. Sucholigonucleotides may have a higher Tm (i.e., higher target bindingaffinity) than 2′-deoxyoligonucleotides against a given target. Theeffect of such increased affinity is to greatly enhance RNAioligonucleotide inhibition of gene expression. RNAse H is a cellularendonuclease that cleaves the RNA strand of RNA:DNA duplexes; activationof this enzyme therefore results in cleavage of the RNA target, and thuscan greatly enhance the efficiency of RNAi inhibition. Cleavage of theRNA target can be routinely demonstrated by gel electrophoresis. In someembodiments, the chimeric oligonucleotide is also modified to enhancenuclease resistance. Cells contain a variety of exo- and endo-nucleaseswhich can degrade nucleic acids. A number of nucleotide and nucleosidemodifications make the oligonucleotide into which they are incorporatedmore resistant to nuclease digestion than the nativeoligodeoxynucleotide. Nuclease resistance is routinely measured byincubating oligonucleotides with cellular extracts or isolated nucleasesolutions and measuring the extent of intact oligonucleotide remainingover time, usually by gel electrophoresis. Oligonucleotides modified toenhance their nuclease resistance survive intact for a longer time thanunmodified oligonucleotides. A variety of oligonucleotide modificationshave been demonstrated to enhance or confer nuclease resistance. In somecases, oligonucleotides contain at least one phosphorothioatemodification. In some cases, oligonucleotide modifications which enhancetarget binding affinity are also, independently, able to enhancenuclease resistance.

Specific examples of some oligonucleotides include those comprisingmodified backbones, for example, phosphorothioates, phosphotriesters,methyl phosphonates, short chain alkyl or cycloalkyl intersugar linkagesor short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic intersugar linkages. In somecases, an oligonucleotide comprises a phosphorothioate backbone. In somecases, an oligonucleotide comprises heteroatom backbones, particularlyCH2-NH-0-CH2, CH, ˜N(CH3)-0˜CH2 [known as a methylene(methylimino) or MMbackbone], CH2-0˜N (CH3)˜CH2, CH2-N (CH3)—N (CH3)—CH2 and 0˜N(CH3)˜CH2-CH2 backbones, wherein the native phosphodiester backbone isrepresented as O—P—O—CH). In some cases, an oligonucleotide comprises amorpholino backbone structures. In some embodiments, such as the peptidenucleic acid (PNA) backbone, the phosphodiester backbone of theoligonucleotide is replaced with a polyamide backbone, the nucleotidesbeing bound directly or indirectly to the aza nitrogen atoms of thepolyamide backbone. Oligonucleotides may also comprise one or moresubstituted sugar moieties. In some cases, oligonucleotides comprise oneof the following at the 2′ position: OH, SH, SCH3, F, OCN, OCH3, OCH3O(CH2)n CH3, O(CH2)n NH2 or O(CH2)n CH3 where n is from 1 to about 10;CI to CIO lower alkyl, alkoxyalkoxy, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl oraralkyl; CI; Br; CN; CF3 ; OCF3; 0˜, S—, or N-alkyl; 0-, S-, orN-alkenyl; SOCH3; SO2 CH3; ONO2; NO2; N3; NH2; heterocycloalkyl;heterocycloalkaryl; aminoalkylamino; polyalkylamino; substituted silyl;an RNA cleaving group; a reporter group; an intercalator; a group forimproving the pharmacokinetic properties of an oligonucleotide; or agroup for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an oligonucleotideand other substituents having similar properties. A non-limitingexemplary modification includes 2′-methoxyethoxy [2-0-CH2 CH2 OCH3, alsoknown as 2′-0-(2-methoxyethyl)]. Other exemplary modifications include2′-methoxy (2′-0˜CH3), 2′- propoxy (2′-OCH2 CH2CH3) and 2′-fluoro(2′-F). Similar modifications may also be made at other positions on theoligonucleotide, particularly the 3′ position of the sugar on the 3′terminal nucleotide and the 5′ position of 5′ terminal nucleotide.Oligonucleotides may also have sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyls inplace of the pentofuranosyl group.

Oligonucleotides may also include nucleobase (often referred to as“base”) modifications or substitutions. As used herein, “unmodified” or“natural” nucleotides include adenine (A), guanine (G), mymine (T),cytosine (C) and uracil (U). Modified nucleotides include nucleotidesfound only infrequently or transiently in natural nucleic acids, e.g.,hypoxanthine, 6-methyladenine, 5-Me pyrimidines, particularly5-methylcytosine (also referred to as 5-methyl-2′ deoxycytosine andoften referred to as 5-Me—C), 5- hydroxymethylcytosine (HMC), glycosylHMC and gentobiosyl HMC, as well as synthetic nucleotides, e.g., 2-aminoadenine, 2-(methylamino)adenine, 2-(imidazolylalkyl)adenine, 2-(aminoalklyamino)adenine or other heterosubstituted alkyladenines,2-thiouracil, 2-tmothvmine, 5- bromouracil, 5-hydroxymethyluracil,8-azaguanine, 7- deazaguanine, N6 (6-aminohexyl)adenine and2,6-diaminopurine. A “universal” base, e.g., inosine, may be included.5-Me—C substitutions increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2°C. and are suitable base substitutions.

Another modification of the oligonucleotides involves chemically linkingto the oligonucleotide one or more moieties or conjugates which enhancethe activity or cellular uptake of the oligonucleotide. Such moietiesinclude but are not limited to lipid moieties such as a cholesterolmoiety, a cholesteryl moiety, an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol orundecyl residues, a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain, orAdamantane acetic acid. Oligonucleotides comprising lipophilic moieties,and methods for preparing such oligonucleotides are known in the art,for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,138,045, 5,218,105 and 5,459,255.

It is not necessary for all positions in a given oligonucleotide to beuniformly modified, and in fact more than one of the aforementionedmodifications may be incorporated in a single oligonucleotide or even atwithin a single nucleoside within an oligonucleotide. Oligonucleotidesmay be chimeric oligonucleotides, e.g., as hereinbefore defined.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid molecule is conjugated with amoiety including but not limited to abasic nucleotides, polyether,polyamine, polyamides, peptides, carbohydrates, lipid, orpolyhydrocarbon compounds. Those skilled in the art will recognize thatthese molecules can be linked to one or more of any nucleotidescomprising the nucleic acid molecule at several positions on the sugar,base or phosphate group.

The oligonucleotides may be conveniently and routinely made through thewell-known technique of solid phase synthesis. Equipment for suchsynthesis is sold by several vendors including Applied Biosystems. Anyother means for such synthesis may also be employed; the actualsynthesis of the oligonucleotides is well within the talents of one ofordinary skill in the art. It is also well known to use similartechniques to prepare other oligonucleotides such as thephosphorothioates and alkylated derivatives. It is also well known touse similar techniques and commercially available modified amiditcs andcontrolled-pore glass (CPG) products such as biotin, fluorescein,acridine or psoralen-modified amidites and/or CPG (available from GlenResearch, Sterling VA) to synthesize fluorescently labeled, biotinylatedor other modified oligonucleotides such as cholesterol- modifiedoligonucleotides.

In some embodiments, use of modifications such as the use of LNAmonomers to enhance the potency, specificity and duration of action andbroaden the routes of administration of oligonucleotides comprised ofcurrent chemistries such as MOE, ANA, FAN A, PS etc. This can beachieved by substituting some of the monomers in the currentoligonucleotides by LNA monomers. The LNA modified oligonucleotide mayhave a size similar to the parent compound or may be larger or smaller.In some cases, such LNA-modified oligonucleotides contain less thanabout 70%, less than about 60%, or less than about 50% LNA monomers, andthat their sizes are between about 5 and 25 nucleotides, or betweenabout 12 and 20 nucleotides.

In some embodiments, modified oligonucleotide backbones comprise, butare not limited to, phosphorothioates, chiral phosphorothioates,phosphorodithioates, phosphotriesters, aniinoalkylphosphotriesters,methyl and other alkyl phosphonates comprising 3′alkylene phosphonatesand chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates comprising3′-amino phosphoramidate and aminoalkylphosphoramidates,thionophosphoramidates, thionoalkylphosphonates,thionoalkylphosphotriesters, and boranophosphates having normal 3 -5′linkages, 2-5′ linked analogs of these, and those having invertedpolarity wherein the adjacent pairs of nucleoside units are linked 3′-5′to 5′- 3′ or 2′-5′ to 5′-2. Various salts, mixed salts and free acidforms are also included.

In some embodiments, modified oligonucleotide backbones that do notinclude a phosphorus atom therein have backbones that are formed byshort chain alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, mixedheteroatom and alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, or one ormore short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic internucleoside linkages.These comprise those having morpholino linkages (formed in part from thesugar portion of a nucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxideand sulfone backbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones;methylene formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containingbackbones; sulfamate backbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazinobackbones; sulfonate and sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; andothers having mixed N, O, S and CH2 component parts.

In some embodiments, both the sugar and the internucleoside linkage,i.e., the backbone, of the nucleotide units are replaced with novelgroups while the base units are maintained for hybridization with thetarget nucleic acid. One such oligomeric compound, an oligonucleotidemimetic with excellent hybridization properties, is referred to as apeptide nucleic acid (PNA). In PNA compounds, the sugar-backbone of anoligonucleotide is replaced with an amide containing backbone, inparticular an aminoethylglycine backbone. The nucleobases are retainedand are bound directly or indirectly to aza nitrogen atoms of the amideportion of the backbone.

In some embodiments, the oligonucleotides comprise a heteroatombackbone, e.g., —CH2-NH-0-CH2-, —CH2-N (CH3)-0-CH2- known as a methylene(memylimino) or MMI backbone, —CH2-0-N (CH3)—CH2-, —CH2N(CH3)—N(CH3)CH2-, and -0-N(CH3)— CH2-CH2-, wherein the native phosphodiesterbackbone is represented as-0-P-0-CH2-0. In some embodiments,oligonucleotides comprise morpholino backbone structures.

Modified oligonucleotides may also contain one or more substituted sugarmoieties. In some embodiments, oligonucleotides comprise one of thefollowing at the 2′ position: OH; F; 0-, S—, or N-alkyl; 0-, S—, orN-alkenyl; 0-, S- or N-alkynyl; or O alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl,alkenyl and alkynyl may be substituted or unsubstituted C to CO alkyl orC2 to CO alkenyl and alkynyl. Non-limiting examples are O (CH2)n OmCH3,O(CH2)n,OCH3, O(CH2)nNH2, O(CH2)nCH3, O(CH2)n0NH2, andO(CH2n0N(CH2)nCH3)2 where n and m can be from 1 to about 10. In someembodiments, oligonucleotides comprise one of the following at the 2′position: C to CO, (lower alkyl, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl,aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH3, OCN, CI, Br, CN, CF3, 0CF3,SOCH3, SO2CH3, ON02, N02, N3, NH2, heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl,ammoalkylamino, polyalkylamino, substituted silyl, an RNA cleavinggroup, a reporter group, an intercalator, a group for improving thepharmacokinetic properties of an oligonucleotide, or a group forimproving the pharmacodynamic properties of an oligonucleotide, andother substituents having similar properties. An exemplary modificationcomprises 2′-methoxyethoxy (2′-0-CH2CH20CH3, also known as2′-0-(2-methoxyethyl) or 2′-MOE) i.e., an alkoxyalkoxy group. Anotherexemplary modification comprises 2′-dimethylaminooxyethoxy, i.e. , aO(CH2)20N(CH3)2 group, also known as 2-DMAOE, as described in examplesherein below, and 2′- dimemylaminoethoxyethoxy (also known as2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl or 2′- DMAEOE), i.e., 2′-0-CH2-0-CH2-N(CH2)2.

Another exemplary modification comprises 2-methoxy (2-0 CH3),2′-aminopropoxy (2′-0 CH2CH2CH2NH2) and 2-fluoro (2′-F) Similarmodifications may also be made at other positions on theoligonucleotide, particularly the 3′ position of the sugar on the 3′terminal nucleotide or in 2′-5′ linked oligonucleotides and the 5′position of 5′ terminal nucleotide. Oligonucleotides may also have sugarmimetics such as cyclobut 1 moieties in place of the pentofuranosylsugar.

Oligonucleotides may also comprise nucleobase (often referred to simplyas “base”) modifications or substitutions. In some embodiments, as usedherein, “unmodified” or “natural” nucleotides comprise the purine basesadenine (A) and guanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases mymine (T),cytosine (C) and uracil (U). Modified nucleotides comprise othersynthetic and natural nucleotides such as 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C),5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2- aminoadenine,6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyland other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil,2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5- propynyluracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil(pseudo-uracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl,8-hydroxyl and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-haloparticularly 5-bromo, 5- trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracilsand cytosines, 7-methylquanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and8-azaadenine, 7-deazagnanine and 7-deazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and3-deazaadenine.

Certain nucleotides may be particularly useful for increasing thebinding affinity of the oligomeric compounds. In some cases, thesecomprise 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6- azapyrirnidines and N-2, N-6 and0-6 substituted purines, comprising 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and/or 5-propynylcytosine. 5- methylcytosinesubstitutions increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2° C.,even more particularly when combined with 2′-Omethoxyethyl sugarmodifications.

Another modification of the oligonucleotides involves chemically linkingto the oligonucleotide one or more moieties or conjugates, which mayenhance the activity, cellular distribution, or cellular uptake of theoligonucleotide. Such moieties comprise but are not limited to, lipidmoieties such as a cholesterol moiety, cholic acid, a thioether, e.g.,hexyl-S-tritylthiol, a thiocholesterol, an aliphatic chain, e.g.,dodecandiol or undecyl residues, a phospholipid, e.g.,di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethylammonium1,2-di-0-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate, a polyamine or apolyethylene glycol chain, or Adamantane acetic acid, a palmityl moiety,or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-t oxycholesterol moiety.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises an oligonucleotide thatinhibits the expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO). In some embodiments, theASO comprises modification pattern ASO1:5′-nsnsnsnsnsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsdNsnsnsnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO:11380), wherein “dN” is any deoxynucleotide, “n” is a 2′O-methyl or2′O-methoxyethyl-modified nucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioatelinkage. In some embodiments, the ASO comprises modification pattern 1S,2S, 3S, 4S, 5S, lAS, 2AS, 3AS, or 4AS.

Ligands

A wide variety of entities can be coupled to the oligonucleotidesdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the entities are ligands, whichare coupled, e.g., covalently, either directly or indirectly via anintervening tether. In some embodiments, a ligand is coupled to a dsRNAagent. In some embodiments, a ligand is coupled to an antisensecompound.

In some embodiments, a ligand alters the distribution, targeting orlifetime of the molecule into which it is incorporated. In someembodiments a ligand provides an enhanced affinity for a selectedtarget, e.g., molecule, cell or cell type, compartment, receptor e.g., acellular or organ compartment, tissue, organ or region of the body, as,e.g., compared to a species absent such a ligand. Ligands providingenhanced affinity for a selected target are also termed targetingligands. These moieties or conjugates can include conjugate groupscovalently bound to functional groups such as primary or secondaryhydroxyl groups. Conjugate groups include intercalators, reportermolecules, polyamines, polyamides, polyethylene glycols, polyethers,groups that enhance the pharmacodynamic properties of oligomers, andgroups that enhance the pharmacokinetic properties of oligomers.Typicalconjugate groups include cholesterols, lipids, phospholipids,biotin, phenazine, folate, phenanthridine, anthraquinone, acridine,fluoresceins, rhc«Jamines, coumarins, and dyes. Groups that enhance thepharmacodynamic properties include groups that improve uptake, enhanceresistance to degradation, and or strengthen sequence- specifichybridization with the target nucleic acid. Groups that enhance thepharmacokinetic properties include groups that improve uptake,distribution, metabolism or excretion of the compounds herein. Conjugatemoieties include, but are not limited to, lipid moieties such as acholesterol moiety, cholic acid, a thioether, e.g., hexyl-5-tritylthiol, a thiocholesterol, an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol orundecyl residues, a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol ortriethylammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-Hphosphonate, apolyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain, or Adamantane acetic acid, apalmityl moiety, or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol moiety. Oligonucleotides may also be conjugatedto active drug substances, for example, aspirin, warfarin,phenylbutazone, ibuprofen, suprofen, fenbufen, ketoprofen,(S)-(+)-pranoprofen, carprofen, dansylsarcosine, 2,3,5-triiodobenzoicacid, flufenamic acid, folinic acid, a benzolhiadiazide, chlorothiazide,a diazepine, indomethicin, a barbiturate, a cephalosporin, a sulfa drug,an antidiabetic, an antibacterial or an antibiotic.

Some ligands can have endosomolytic properties. The endosomolyticligands promote the lysis of the endosome and/or transport of thecomposition, or its components, from the endosome to the cytoplasm ofthe cell. The endosomolytic ligand may be a poly anionic peptide orpeptidomimetic which shows pH-dependent membrane activity andfusogenicity. In some embodiments, the endosomolytic ligand assumes itsactive conformation at endosomal pH. The “active” conformation is thatconformation in which the endosomolytic ligand promotes lysis of theendosome and/or transport of the composition, or its components, fromthe endosome to the cytoplasm of the cell. Exemplary endosomolyticligands include the GALA peptide, the EALA peptide, and theirderivatives. In some embodiments, the endosomolytic component maycontain a chemical group (e.g., an amino acid) which will undergo achange in charge or protonation in response to a change in pH. Theendosomolytic component may be linear or branched. Ligands can improvetransport, hybridization, and specificity properties and may alsoimprove nuclease resistance of the resultant natural or modifiedoligoribonucleotide, or a polymeric molecule comprising any combinationof monomers described herein and/or natural or modified ribonucleotides.

Ligands in general can include therapeutic modifiers, e.g., forenhancing uptake; diagnostic compounds or reporter groups e.g., formonitoring distribution; cross-linking agents; and nuclease-resistanceconferring moieties. General examples include lipids, steroids,vitamins, sugars, proteins, peptides, polyamines, and peptide mimics.

Ligands can include a naturally occurring substance, such as a protein(e.g., human serum albumin (HSA), low-density lipoprotein (LDL),high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or globulin); a carbohydrate (e.g., adextran, pullulan, chitin, chitosan, inulin, cyclodextrin or hyaluronicacid); or a lipid. The ligand may also be a recombinant or syntheticmolecule, such as a synthetic polymer, e.g., a synthetic polyamino acid,an oligonucleotide (e.g. an aptamer). Examples of polyamino acidsinclude polyamino acid is a polylysine (PLL), poly L-aspartic acid, polyL-glutamic acid, styrene-maleic acid anhydride copolymer,poly(L-lactide-co-glycolied) copolymer, divinyl ether-maleic anhydridecopolymer, N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer (HMPA),polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyurethane,poly(2-ethylacryllic acid), N-isopropylacrylamide polymers, orpolyphosphazine. Example of polyamines include: polyethylenimine,polylysine (PLL), spermine, spermidine, polyamine,pseudopeptide-polyamine, peptidomimetic polyamine, dendrimer polyamine,arginine, amidine, protamine, cationic lipid, cationic porphyrin,quaternary salt of a polyamine, or an alpha helical peptide.

Ligands can also include targeting groups, e.g., a cell or tissuetargeting agent, e.g., a lectin, glycoprotein, lipid or protein, e.g.,an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a kidney cell.A targeting group can be a thyrotropin, melanotropin, lectin,glycoprotein, surfactant protein A, Mucin carbohydrate, multivalentlactose, multivalent galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine,N-acetyl-gulucosamine multivalent mannose, multivalent fucose,glycosylated polyaminoacids, multivalent galactose, transferrin,bisphosphonate, polyglutamate, polyaspartate, a lipid, cholesterol, asteroid, bile acid, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, anarginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide, an RGD peptide mimetic oran aptamer.

Additional examples of ligands include dyes, intercalating agents (e.g.acridines), cross-linkers (e.g. psoralene, mitomycin C), porphyrins(TPPC4, texaphyrin, Sapphyrin), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g.,phenazine, dihydrophenazine), artificial endonucleases or a chelator(e.g. EDTA), lipophilic molecules, e.g, cholesterol, cholic acid,adamantane acetic acid, 1-pyrene butyric acid, dihydrotestosterone, 1,3-Bis-0(hexadecyl)glycerol, geranyloxyhexyl group, hexadecylglycerol,borneol, menthol, 1,3-propanediol, heptadecyl group, palmitic acid,myristic acid,03-(oleoyl)lithocholic acid, 03-(oleoyl)cholenic acid,dimethoxytrityl, or phenoxazine)and peptide conjugates (e.g.,antennapedia peptide, Tat peptide), alkylating agents, phosphate, amino,mercapto, PEG (e.g., PEG-40K), MPEG, [MPEG]2, polyamino, alkyl,substituted alkyl, radiolabeled markers, enzymes, haptens (e.g. biotin),transport/absorption facilitators (e.g., aspirin, vitamin E, folicacid), synthetic ribonucleases (e.g., imidazole, bisimidazole,histamine, imidazole clusters, acridine-imidazole conjugates, Eu3+complexes of tetraazamacrocycles), dinitrophenyl, HRP, or AP.

Ligands can be proteins, e.g., glycoproteins, or peptides, e.g.,molecules having a specific affinity for a co-ligand, or antibodiese.g., an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a cancercell, endothelial cell, or bone cell. Ligands may also include hormonesand hormone receptors. They can also include non-peptidic species, suchas lipids, lectins, carbohydrates, vitamins, cofactors, multivalentlactose, multivalent galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine,N-acetyl-gulucosamine multivalent mannose, multivalent fucose, oraptamers. The ligand can be, for example, a lipopolysaccharide, anactivator of p38 MAP kinase, or an activator of NF-KB.

The ligand can be a substance, e.g, a drug, which can increase theuptake of the siRNA agent into the cell, for example, by disrupting thecell's cytoskeleton, e.g., by disrupting the cell's microtubules,microfilaments, and/or intermediate filaments. The drug can be, forexample, taxon, vincristine, vinblastine, cytochalasin, nocodazole,japlakinolide, latrunculin A, phalloidin, swinholide A, indanocine, ormyoservin.

The ligand can increase the uptake of the oligonucleotide into the cellby activating an inflammatory response, for example Exemplary ligandsthat would have such an effect include tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha), interleukin-1 beta, or gamma interferon.

In another aspect, the ligand is a moiety, e.g., a vitamin, which istaken up by a target cell, e.g., a proliferating cell. These areparticularly useful for treating disorders characterized by unwantedcell proliferation, e.g., of the malignant or non-malignant type, e.g.,cancer cells. Exemplary vitamins include vitamin A, E, and K. Otherexemplary vitamins include B vitamins, e.g., folic acid, B12,riboflavin, biotin, pyridoxal or other vitamins or nutrients taken up bycancer cells. Also included are HAS, low density lipoprotein (LDL) andhigh-density lipoprotein (HDL). In another aspect, the ligand is acell-permeation agent, e.g., a helical cell- permeation agent. In somecases, the agent is amphipathic. An exemplary agent is a peptide such astat or antennopedia. If the agent is a peptide, it can be modified,including a peptidylmimetic, invertomers, non-peptide or pseudo-peptidelinkages, and use of D- amino acids. The helical agent is may be analpha- helical agent, which may have a lipophilic and a lipophobicphase.

The ligand can be a peptide or peptidomimetic. A peptidomimetic (alsoreferred to herein as an oligopeptidomimetic) is a molecule capable offolding into a defined three-dimensional structure similar to a naturalpeptide. The peptide or peptidomimetic moiety can be about 3-50 aminoacids long, e.g., about 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50amino acids long. A peptide or peptidomimetic can be, for example, acell permeation peptide, cationic peptide, amphipathic peptide, orhydrophobic peptide (e.g., consisting primarily of Tyr, Trp or Phe). Thepeptide moiety can be a dendrimer peptide, constrained peptide orcrosslinked peptide. In some cases, the peptide moiety can include ahydrophobic membrane translocation sequence (MTS). An exemplaryhydrophobic MTS-containing peptide is RFGF derived from human fibroblastgrowth factor 4 and having the amino acid sequence AAVALLPAVLLALLAP (SEQID NO: 11390), an RFGF analogue (e g , amino acid sequence AALLPVLLAAP(SEQ ID NO: 11391) containing a hydrophobic MTS can also be a targetingmoiety. The peptide moiety can be a “delivery” peptide, which can carrylarge polar molecules including peptides, oligonucleotides, and proteinacross cell membranes. For example, sequences from the HIV Tat protein(GRKKRRQRRRPPQ, SEQ ID NO: 11392) and the Drosophila Antennapediaprotein (RQIKIWFQNRRMKWK, SEQ ID NO: 11393) are capable of functioningas delivery peptides. A peptide or peptidomimetic can be encoded by arandom sequence of DNA, such as a peptide identified from aphage-display library, or one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatoriallibrary. In some cases, the peptide or peptidomimetic tethered to anantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA agent via an incorporated monomerunit is a cell targeting peptide such as an arginine-glycine-asparticacid (RGD)-peptide, or RGD mimic. A peptide moiety can range in lengthfrom about 3 amino acids to about 40 amino acids. The peptide moietiescan have a structural modification, such as to increase stability ordirect conformational properties. Any of the structural modificationsdescribed below can be utilized. An RGD peptide moiety can be used totarget a tumor cell, such as an endothelial tumor cell or a breastcancer tumor cell. An RGD peptide can facilitate targeting of an siRNAagent to tumors of a variety of other tissues, including the lung,kidney, spleen, or liver. In some cases, the RGD peptide will facilitatetargeting of an siRNA agent to the kidney. The RGD peptide may also beused to facilitate targeting of an siRNA agent to different cell typesin the eye. RGD-binding integrins, such as the avb3 integrin pair, areexpressed in trabecular meshwork, sclera, and ciliary body of the mouseanterior segment. The RGD peptide can be linear or cyclic, and can bemodified, e.g., glycosylated or methylated to facilitate targeting tospecific tissues. For example, a glycosylated RGD peptide can deliver ansiRNA agent to a tumor cell expressing yB3. Peptides that target markersenriched in proliferating cells can be used. E.g., RGD containingpeptides and peptidomimetics can target cancer cells, in particularcells that exhibit an integrin. Thus, one could use RGD peptides, cyclicpeptides containing RGD, RGD peptides that include D-amino acids, aswell as synthetic RGD mimics. In addition to RGD, one can use othermoieties that target the integrin ligand. Generally, such ligands can beused to control proliferating cells and angiogenesis. Exemplaryconjugates of this type ligands that targets PECAM-1, VEGF, or othercancer gene, e.g., a cancer gene described herein. Cell binding ligandsmay be composed of multiple ligands (multivalency) to increase bindingaffinity. For example, more than one integrin-binding ligand may becombined. Without limiting the structures that bind to integrins, anexample of a cyclic peptide RGD ligand is Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Xaa)where Xaa is an amino acid with a sidechain that is amenable toconjugation. Naturally occurring examples of X include cysteine where athiol is used for conjugation, lysine where an amine is used forconjugation. In addition, non-natural amino acids may have otherfunctional groups such as alkynes, azides, maleimides for conjugation.

An example of a noncyclic, peptidomimetic is an amino benzoic acidderivative where in X is a site of conjugation.

Some embodiments include an RGD ligand attached at either a 3′ terminusor a 5′ terminus. Some embodiments include an RGD ligand attached at a3′ terminus and a 5′ terminus. In some embodiments, the RGD ligandcomprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-alkynyl),amino benzoic acid-based RGD, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the RGD ligand is composed of 2, 3 or 4 RGD ligands. Insome embodiments, the RGD is positioned on the sense strand. In someembodiments, the RGD is positioned at the 5′ end of the sense strand. Insome embodiments, the RGD is positioned at the 3′ end of the sensestrand. In some embodiments, the RGD is positioned on the antisensestrand. In some embodiments, the RGD ligand is positioned at the 5′ endof the antisense strand. In some embodiments, the RGD ligand ispositioned at the 3′ end of the antisense strand.

In some embodiments, a “cell permeation peptide” is capable ofpermeating a cell, e.g., a microbial cell, such as a bacterial or fungalcell, or a mammalian cell, such as a human cell. A microbialcell-permeating peptide can be, for example, an a-helical linear peptide(e.g., LL-37 or Ceropin PI), a disulfide bond-containing peptide (e.g.,a -defensin, β-defensin or bactenecin), or a peptide containing only oneor two dominating amino acids (e.g., PR-39 or indolicidin). A cellpermeation peptide can also include a nuclear localization signal (NLS).For example, a cell permeation peptide can be a bipartite amphipathicpeptide, such as MPG, which is derived from the fusion peptide domain ofHIV- 1 gp41 and the NLS of SV40 large T antigen.

In some embodiments, a targeting peptide can be an amphipathic a-helicalpeptide. Exemplary amphipathic a-helical peptides include, but are notlimited to, cecropins, lycotoxins, paradaxins, buforin, CPF,bombinin-like peptide (BLP), cathelicidins, ceratotoxins, S. clavapeptides, hagfish intestinal antimicrobial peptides (HFIAPs),magainines, brevinins-2, dermaseptins, melittins, pleurocidin, H2Apeptides, Xenopus peptides, esculentinis-1, and caerins. A number offactors may be considered to maintain the integrity of helix stability.For example, a maximum number of helix stabilization residues will beutilized (e.g., leu, ala, or lys), and a minimum number helixdestabilization residues will be utilized (e.g., proline, or cyclicmonomeric units. The capping residue will be considered (for example Glyis an exemplary N-capping residue and/or C-terminal amidation can beused to provide an extra H-bond to stabilize the helix. Formation ofsalt bridges between residues with opposite charges, separated by i±3,or i±4 positions can provide stability. For example, cationic residuessuch as lysine, arginine, homo-arginine, ornithine or histidine can formsalt bridges with the anionic residues glutamate or aspartate.

Peptide and peptidomimetic ligands include those having naturallyoccurring or modified peptides, e.g., D or L peptides; α, β, or γpeptides; N-methyl peptides; azapeptides; peptides having one or moreamide, i.e., peptide, linkages replaced with one or more urea, thiourea,carbamate, or sulfonyl urea linkages; or cyclic peptides.

The targeting ligand can be any ligand that is capable of targeting aspecific receptor. Examples are: folate, GalNAc, galactose, mannose,mannose-6P, clusters of sugars such as GalNAc cluster, mannose cluster,galactose cluster, or an aptamer. A cluster is a combination of two ormore sugar units. The targeting ligands also include integrin receptorligands, Chemokine receptor ligands, transferrin, biotin, serotoninreceptor ligands, PSMA, endothelin, GCPII, somatostatin, LDL and HDLligands. The ligands can also be based on nucleic acid, e.g., anaptamer. The aptamer can be unmodified or have any combination ofmodifications disclosed herein.

Endosomal release agents include imidazoles, poly or oligoimidazoles,PEIs, peptides, fusogenic peptides, polycarboxylates, polycations,masked oligo or poly cations or anions, acetals, polyacetals,ketals/polyketyals, orthoesters, polymers with masked or unmaskedcationic or anionic charges, dendrimers with masked or unmasked cationicor anionic charges.

PK modulator stands for pharmacokinetic modulator. PK modulator includelipophiles, bile acids, steroids, phospholipid analogues, peptides,protein binding agents, PEG, vitamins etc. Exemplary PK modulatorinclude, but are not limited to, cholesterol, fatty acids, cholic acid,lithocholic acid, dialkylglycerides, diacylglyceride, phospholipids,sphingo lipids, naproxen, ibuprofen, vitamin E, biotin etc.Oligonucleotides that comprise a number of phosphorothioate linkages arealso known to bind to serum protein, thus short oligonucleotides, e.g.oligonucleotides of about 5 bases, 10 bases, 15 bases or 20 bases,comprising multiple of phosphorothioate linkages in the backbone arealso amenable as ligands (e.g. as PK modulating ligands).

In addition, aptamers that bind serum components (e.g. serum proteins)are also amenable as PK modulating ligands.

When two or more ligands are present, the ligands can all have sameproperties, all have different properties or some ligands have the sameproperties while others have different properties. For example, a ligandcan have targeting properties, have endosomolytic activity or have PKmodulating properties. In some embodiments, all the ligands havedifferent properties.

Ligands can be coupled to the oligonucleotides at various places, forexample, 3′- end, 5′-end, and/or at an internal position. In someembodiments, the ligand is attached to the oligonucleotides via anintervening tether, e.g. a carrier described herein. The ligand ortethered ligand may be present on a monomer when said monomer isincorporated into the growing strand. In some embodiments, the ligandmay be incorporated via coupling to a “precursor” monomer after said“precursor” monomer is incorporated into the growing strand. Forexample, a monomer having, e.g., an amino -terminated tether (i.e.,having no associated ligand), e.g., TAP-(CH2)nNH2 may be incorporatedinto a growing oligonucleotide strand. In a subsequent operation, i.e.,after incorporation of the precursor monomer into the strand, a ligandhaving an electrophilic group, e.g., a pentafluorophenyl ester oraldehyde group, can subsequently be attached to the precursor monomer bycoupling the electrophilic group of the ligand with the terminalnucleophilic group of the precursor monomer's tether. In anotherexample, a monomer having a chemical group suitable for taking part inClick Chemistry reaction may be incorporated e.g., an azide or alkyneterminated tether/linker. In a subsequent operation, i.e., afterincorporation of the precursor monomer into the strand, a ligand havingcomplementary chemical group, e.g. an alkyne or azide can be attached tothe precursor monomer by coupling the alkyne and the azide together.

For double-stranded oligonucleotides, ligands can be attached to one orboth strands. In some embodiments, a double-stranded siRNA agentcontains a ligand conjugated to the sense strand. In some embodiments, adouble-stranded siRNA agent contains a ligand conjugated to theantisense strand.

In some embodiments, ligand can be conjugated to nucleobases, sugarmoieties, or internucleosidic linkages of nucleic acid molecules.Conjugation to purine nucleobases or derivatives thereof can occur atany position including, endocyclic and exocyclic atoms. In someembodiments, the 2-, 6-, 7-, or 8-positions of a purine nucleobase areattached to a conjugate moiety. Conjugation to pyrimidine nucleobases orderivatives thereof can also occur at any position. In some embodiments,the 2-, 5-, and 6-positions of a pyrimidine nucleobase can besubstituted with a conjugate moiety. Conjugation to sugar moieties ofnucleosides can occur at any carbon atom. Example carbon atoms of asugar moiety that can be attached to a conjugate moiety include the 2′,3′, and 5′ carbon atoms. The F position can also be attached to aconjugate moiety, such as in an abasic residue. Internucleosidiclinkages can also bear conjugate moieties. For phosphorus- containinglinkages (e.g., phosphodiester, phosphorothioate, phosphorodithiotate,phosphoroamidate, and the like), the conjugate moiety can be attacheddirectly to the phosphorus atom or to an O, N, or S atom bound to thephosphorus atom. For amine- or amide-containing internucleosidiclinkages (e.g., PNA), the conjugate moiety can be attached to thenitrogen atom of the amine or amide or to an adjacent carbon atom.

Any suitable ligand in the field of RNA interference may be used,although the ligand is typically a carbohydrate e.g. monosaccharide(such as GalNAc), disaccharide, trisaccharide, tetrasaccharide,polysaccharide. Linkers that conjugate the ligand to the nucleic acidinclude those discussed above. For example, the ligand can be one ormore GalNAc (N-acetylglucosamine) derivatives attached through abivalent or trivalent branched linker.

Cleavable Linking Groups

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide compound or compositioncomprising an oligonucleotide compound comprises a cleavable linkinggroup. In some cases a dsRNA agent comprises or is connected to acleavable linking group. In some cases an antisense compound comprisesor is connected to a cleavable linking group.

In some embodiments, a cleavable linking group is one which issufficiently stable outside the cell, but which upon entry into a targetcell is cleaved to release the two parts the linker is holding together.In some embodiments, the cleavable linking group is cleaved at least 10times or more, or at least 100 times faster in the target cell or undera first reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected to mimic orrepresent intracellular conditions) than in the blood of a subject, orunder a second reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected tomimic or represent conditions found in the blood or serum).

Cleavable linking groups are susceptible to cleavage agents, e.g., pH,redox potential or the presence of degradative agents. Generally,cleavage agents are more prevalent or found at higher levels oractivities inside cells than in serum or blood.

Examples of such degradative agents include: redox agents which areselected for particular substrates or which have no substratespecificity, including, e.g., oxidative or reductive enzymes orreductive agents such as mercaptans, present in cells, that can degradea redox cleavable linking group by reduction; esterases; endosomes oragents that can create an acidic environment, e.g., those that result ina pH of five or lower; enzymes that can hydrolyze or degrade an acidcleavable linking group by acting as a general acid, peptidases (whichcan be substrate specific), and phosphatases.

A cleavable linkage group, such as a disulfide bond can be susceptibleto pH. The pH of human serum is 7.4, while the average intracellular pHis slightly lower, ranging from about 7.1-7.3. Endosomes have a moreacidic pH, in the range of 5.5-6.0, and lysosomes have an even moreacidic pH at around 5.0. Some linkers will have a cleavable linkinggroup that is cleaved at a particular pH, thereby releasing the cationiclipid from the ligand inside the cell, or into the desired compartmentof the cell.

A linker can include a cleavable linking group that is cleavable by aparticular enzyme. The type of cleavable linking group incorporated intoa linker can depend on the cell to be targeted. For example, livertargeting ligands can be linked to the cationic lipids through a linkerthat includes an ester group. Liver cells are rich in esterases, andtherefore the linker will be cleaved more efficiently in liver cellsthan in cell types that are not esterase-rich. Other cell-types rich inesterases include cells of the lung, renal cortex, and testis.

Linkers that contain peptide bonds can be used when targeting cell typesrich in peptidases, such as liver cells and synoviocytes. In general,the suitability of a candidate cleavable linking group can be evaluatedby testing the ability of a degradative agent (or condition) to cleavethe candidate linking group. It will also be desirable to also test thecandidate cleavable linking group for the ability to resist cleavage inthe blood or when in contact with other non-target tissue. Thus one candetermine the relative susceptibility to cleavage between a first and asecond condition, where the first is selected to be indicative ofcleavage in a target cell and the second is selected to be indicative ofcleavage in other tissues or biological fluids, e.g., blood or serum.The evaluations can be carried out in cell free systems, in cells, incell culture, in organ or tissue culture, or in whole animals. It may beuseful to make initial evaluations in cell- free or culture conditionsand to confirm by further evaluations in whole animals In someembodiments, useful candidate compounds are cleaved at least 2, 4, 10 or100 times faster in the cell (or under in vitro conditions selected tomimic intracellular conditions) as compared to blood or serum (or underin vitro conditions selected to mimic extracellular conditions).

Redox Cleavable Linking Groups

One class of cleavable linking groups are redox cleavable linking groupsthat are cleaved upon reduction or oxidation. An example of reductivelycleavable linking group is a disulphide linking group (—S—S—). Todetermine if a candidate cleavable linking group is a suitable“reductively cleavable linking group,” or for example is suitable foruse with a particular oligonucleotide and particular targeting agent onecan look to methods described herein. For example, a candidate can beevaluated by incubation with dithiothreitol (DTT), or other reducingagent using reagents know in the art, which mimic the rate of cleavagewhich would be observed in a cell, e.g., a target cell. The candidatescan also be evaluated under conditions which are selected to mimic bloodor serum conditions. In some embodiments, candidate compounds arecleaved by at most 10% in the blood. In some embodiments, usefulcandidate compounds are degraded at least 2, 4, 10 or 100 times fasterin the cell (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimicintracellular conditions) as compared to blood (or under in vitroconditions selected to mimic extracellular conditions). The rate ofcleavage of candidate compounds can be determined using standard enzymekinetics assays under conditions chosen to mimic intracellular media andcompared to conditions chosen to mimic extracellular media.

Phosphate-Based Cleavable Linking Groups

Phosphate-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by agents thatdegrade or hydro lyze the phosphate group. An example of an agent thatcleaves phosphate groups in cells are enzymes such as phosphatases incells. Examples of phosphate-based linking groups are -0-P(0)(ORk)-0-,-0-P(S)(ORk)-0-, -0-P(S)(SRk)-0-, —S—P(0)(ORk)-0-, -0-P(0)(ORk)—S—,—S—P(0)(ORk)—S—, -0-P(S)(ORk)—S—, —S—P(S)(ORk)-0-, -0-P(0)(Rk)- 0-,-0-P(S)(Rk)-0-, —S—P(0)(Rk)-0-, —S—P(S)(Rk)-0-, —S—P(0)(Rk)—S—,-0-P(S)(Rk)—S—. Some embodiments are -0-P(0)(OH)-0-, -0-P(S)(OH)-0-,-0-P(S)(SH)-0-, −S— P(0)(OH)-0-, -0-P(0)(OH)—S—, —S—P(0)(OH)—S—,-0-P(S)(OH)—S—, —S—P(S)(OH)-0-, —O—P(0)(H)-0-, -0-P(S)(H)-0-,—S—P(0)(H)-0-, —S—P(S)(H)-0-, —S—P(0)(H)—S—, -0-P(S)(H)—S—. An exemplaryembodiment is -0-P(0)(OH)-0-. These candidates can be evaluated usingmethods analogous to those described above.

Acid Cleavable Linking Groups

Acid cleavable linking groups are linking groups that are cleaved underacidic conditions. In some embodiments acid cleavable linking groups arecleaved in an acidic environment with a pH of about 6.5 or lower (e.g.,about 6.0, 5.5, 5.0, or lower), or by agents such as enzymes that canact as a general acid. In a cell, specific low pH organelles, such asendosomes and lysosomes can provide a cleaving environment for acidcleavable linking groups. Examples of acid cleavable linking groupsinclude but are not limited to hydrazones, esters, and esters of aminoacids. Acid cleavable groups can have the general formula —C═NN—C(0)0,or —OC(O). An exemplary embodiment is when the carbon attached to theoxygen of the ester (the alkoxy group) is an aryl group, substitutedalkyl group, or tertiary alkyl group such as dimethyl pentyl or t-butyl.These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to thosedescribed above.

Ester-Based Linking Groups

Ester-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by enzymes such asesterases and amidases in cells. Examples of ester-based cleavablelinking groups include but are not limited to esters of alkylene,alkenylene and alkynylene groups. Ester cleavable linking groups havethe general formula —C(0)0-, or —OC(O)—. These candidates can beevaluated using methods analogous to those described above.

Peptide-Based Cleaving Groups

Peptide-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by enzymes such aspeptidases and proteases in cells. Peptide-based cleavable linkinggroups are peptide bonds formed between amino acids to yieldoligopeptides (e.g., dipeptides, tripeptides etc.) and polypeptides.Peptide-based cleavable groups do not include the amide group(—C(O)NH—). The amide group can be formed between any alkylene,alkenylene or alkynelene. A peptide bond is a special type of amide bondformed between amino acids to yield peptides and proteins. The peptidebased cleavage group is generally limited to the peptide bond (i.e., theamide bond) formed between amino acids yielding peptides and proteinsand does not include the entire amide functional group. Peptide-basedcleavable linking groups have the general formula—NHCHRAC(0)NHCHRBC(0)-, where RA and RB are the R groups of the twoadjacent amino acids. These candidates can be evaluated using methodsanalogous to those described above. As used herein, “carbohydrate”refers to a compound which is either a carbohydrate per se made up ofone or more monosaccharide units having at least 6 carbon atoms (whichmay be linear, branched or cyclic) with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfuratom bonded to each carbon atom; or a compound having as a part thereofa carbohydrate moiety made up of one or more monosaccharide units eachhaving at least six carbon atoms (which may be linear, branched orcyclic), with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom bonded to each carbonatom. Representative carbohydrates include the sugars (mono-, di-, tri-and oligosaccharides containing from about 4-9 monosaccharide units),and polysaccharides such as starches, glycogen, cellulose andpolysaccharide gums. Specific monosaccharides include C5 and above(e.g., C5-C8) sugars; di- and trisaccharides include sugars having twoor three monosaccharide units (e.g., C5-C8).

Nucleotide Mimics

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide disclosed herein is a nakedoligonucleotide. Naked oligonucleotides are defined as systems thatcontain no agents that are associated with the nucleic acid eithercovalently or non-covalently. The absence of any delivery vehicle mayrequire that the oligonucleotide itself be sufficiently nucleaseresistant, sufficiently long circulating and cell targeted. For small,solid-phase synthesized oligonucleotides such as those used in antisenseoligonucleotides, RNAi, and innate immune stimulators, the use ofnucleotide mimics may provide the required drug-like properties.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises nucleotides that replace phosphodiester group. Thesubstitution of one non-bridging oxygen of a phosphodiester with asulfur atom creates the phosphorothioate (PS) linkage. A PS bond createsa new stereocenter in the nucleotide and when synthesized under standardachiral conditions creates diastereomeric mixtures of Rp and Sp at thephosphorous atom.

There are other functional groups identified as replacements of thephosphodiester group in the oligonucleotide. Like phosphates andphosphorothioates, there are a variety of functional groups that arenegatively charged such as phosphorodithioate (PS2) andthio-phosphoramidates. There are number of analogues that are unchargedsuch as phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer (PMO), peptide nucleicacid (PNA), phosphotriesters, and phosphonates. It is postulated thatthe uncharged analogues are not only nuclease resistant, but may also bemore membrane permeable; however, the size and hydrophilicity ofuncharged oligonucleotides still preclude their passive diffusion acrossmembranes.

Morpholino oligos (PMOs) use a hydrolytically stable, unchargedphosphordiamidate functional group.

Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are—as their name suggests—based upon theamide functional group.

Enemas and intramuscular, intravitreal, intrathecal injections may beused for the administration of a variety of oligonucleotides with andwithout PS bonds.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a nucleoside analogue that alters the structure of ribose.There are a variety of nucleotide mimics wherein the ribose ordeoxyribose is modified to increase affinity for target and/or increasenuclease resistance. In some cases, there are modifications to all fivepositions of the ribose ring. In some cases, modifications are made tothe 2′ position of ribose.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a modifications at the 1′ position. In some cases, theoligonucleotide comprises a cytidine mimic that is designed to haveincreased affinity for guanosine bases due to hydrogen bonding throughan aminoethyl group. In some cases, the oligonucleotide comprises a C-5propynyl pyrimidines.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a 2′ modifications. Modifications of the hydroxyl group at the2′ position of ribose may be used to mimic the structure of the ribosering while inhibiting ribonucleases that require the 2′OH group forhydrolysis of RNA. In some cases, the oligonucleotide comprises a2′-O-Methyl ribonucleic acid that is naturally occurring and mayincrease binding affinity to RNA itself while being resistant toribonuclease. In some cases, the oligonucleotide comprises a 2′-O-Methylgroup. In some cases, the oligonucleotide comprises a2′-O-Methoxyethyl(MOE) modification, which may mimic the ribonucleaseresistance of O-methyl, attenuate protein-oligonucleotide interactionsand have increased affinity for RNA.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro (2′-F) analogue of nucleosides that adopta C3′-endo conformation characteristic of the sugars in RNA helices.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a 4′- and 5′-modifications, where alkoxy substituents at the4′ position of 2′deoxyribose mimic the conformation of ribose.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a bicyclic 2′-4′-modification. There are a variety of ribosederivatives that lock the carbohydrate ring into the 3′ endoconformation by the formation of bicyclic structures with a bridgebetween the 2′ oxygen and the 4′ position. The original bicyclicstructure has a methylene bridging group and are termed locked nucleicacids (LNAs). The bicyclic structure “locks” the ribose into itspreferred 3′ endo conformation and increases base pairing affinity.Incorporation of LNAs into a DNA duplex can increase melting points upto 8° C. per LNA. Subsequently, a variety of bicyclic nucleotides havebeen developed such as Bridged Nucleic Acids (BNAs), Ethyl-bridged(ENAs), constrained ethyl (cEt) nucleic acids and tricyclic structureswith varying affinity for target sites. LNAs can be incorporated intoantagomirs, splice blocking oligonucleotides, either strand of an RNAiduplex; however, like other 3′ endo conformers, LNAs are not substratesfor RNAse H.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises an acyclic nucleic acid analog. In some cases, the analogcomprises an alternative ribose ring structure. These include those inwhich the bond between 2′ and 3′ carbons in the ribose is absent, aswell as those containing substitution of the ribose ring with athree-carbon backbone. Examples of acyclic nucleic acid analogs includeunlocked nucleic acid (UNA) and glycol nucleic acids (GNA).Incorporation of these analogs reduce the melting temperature of theRNAi duplex and can be incorporated into either strand. Incorporation atthe 5′ end of the sense strand, or passenger strand, inhibitsincorporation into this strand into RISC. Incorporation into the seedregion of the antisense strand, or guide strand, can reduce off-targetactivity. Acyclic nucleic acid analogs may also increase resistance ofthe RNAi duplex to 3′-exonuclease activity.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosurecomprises a modification patterns. Without being bound by theory, forRNAi duplexes, recognition by RISC requires RNA-like 3′-endo nucleotidesand some patterns of RNA analogues. A pattern of alternating 2′-O-methylgroups may provide stability against nucleases, but not all permutationsof alternating 2′-O-methyl are active RNAi agents. The fact that one mayremove all 2′-hydroxy groups with alternating 2′-fluoro and 2′-O-methylgroups to produce duplexes that are resistant to nucleases and active inRNAi may suggest the 2′-hydroxy group is not absolutely required foractivity, but that some sites in the RNAi duplex are sensitive to theadded steric bulk of the methyl group.

Conjugated Oligonucleotides

Oligonucleotides may have groups conjugated via covalent bonds thatprolong circulation, provide targeting to tissues and facilitateintracellular delivery.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide of the present disclosure isconjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG), which may prevent clearance bytwo mechanisms: the increase in molecular weight above threshold forrenal clearance and the prevention of non-specific interactions withextracellular surfaces and serum components. PEG may be incorporatedinto nucleic acid delivery vehicles by attachment to components thatnon-covalently associate with the nucleic acids, e.g. PEGylated lipidsand polymers. PEG may also be directly conjugated to increase nucleicacid circulation times, decrease nonspecific interactions and alterbiodistribution. In some cases, the targeting is passive and the potencyof the nucleic may be compromised as PEG MW increases.

Another class of molecules that can be conjugated in order to increasescirculation times is the attachment of lipophilic groups such ascholesterol or other lipophilic moiety with >12 carbons which interactwith serum components such as albumen and lipoproteins therebyincreasing circulation times and passive accumulation in the liver. Insome cases, extensive PS modification increases circulation timesthrough associations with serum components, with roughly 10 PS groupsrequired for serum binding.

Formulations, Compositions, and Delivery

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA isadministered in buffer.

In some embodiments, antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent (sometimesreferred to as siRNA) compounds described herein can be formulated foradministration to a subject. A formulated antisense oligonucleotide orsiRNA composition can assume a variety of states. In some examples, thecomposition is at least partially crystalline, uniformly crystalline,and/or anhydrous (e.g., less than 80, 50, 30, 20, or 10% water). Inanother example, the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA is in an aqueousphase, e.g., in a solution that includes water.

The aqueous phase or the crystalline compositions can, e.g., beincorporated into a delivery vehicle, e.g., a liposome (particularly forthe aqueous phase) or a particle (e.g., a microparticle as can beappropriate for a crystalline composition). Generally, the antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA composition is formulated in a manner that iscompatible with the intended method of administration, as describedherein. For example, in particular embodiments the composition isprepared by at least one of the following methods: spray drying,lyophilization, vacuum drying, evaporation, fluid bed drying, or acombination of these techniques; or sonication with a lipid,freeze-drying, condensation and other self- assembly.

An antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA preparation can be formulated incombination with another agent, e.g., another therapeutic agent or anagent that stabilizes an antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA, e.g., aprotein that complexes with siRNA to form an iRNP. Still other agentsinclude chelators, e.g., EDTA (e.g., to remove divalent cations such asMg2+), salts, RNAse inhibitors (e.g., a broad specificity RNAseinhibitor such as RNAsin) and so forth.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA preparationincludes another antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA compound, e.g., asecond siRNA that can mediate RNAi with respect to a second gene, orwith respect to the same gene. Still other preparation can include atleast 3, 5, ten, twenty, fifty, or a hundred or more different antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA species. Such siRNAs can mediate RNAi withrespect to a similar number of different genes.

In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA preparationincludes at least a second therapeutic agent (e.g., an agent other thana RNA or a DNA). For example, an antisense oligonucleotide or siRNAcomposition for the treatment of a viral disease, e.g., HIV, mightinclude a known antiviral agent (e.g., a protease inhibitor or reversetranscriptase inhibitor). In another example, a siRNA composition forthe treatment of a cancer might further comprise a chemotherapeuticagent.

Liposomes

For ease of exposition the formulations, compositions and methods inthis section are discussed largely with regard to unmodified antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA compounds. It may be understood, however, thatthese formulations, compositions and methods can be practiced with otherantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA compounds, e.g., modified antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNAs. An antisense oligonucleotide or siRNAcompound, e.g., a double-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNA compound,(e.g., a precursor, e.g., a larger siRNA compound which can be processedinto a ssiRNA compound, or a DNA which encodes an siRNA compound, e.g.,a double-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNA compound, or precursorthereof) preparation can be formulated for delivery in a membranousmolecular assembly, e.g., a liposome or a micelle. In some embodiments,the term “liposome” refers to a vesicle with amphiphilic lipids arrangedin at least one bilayer, e.g., one bilayer or a plurality of bilayers.Liposomes include unilamellar and multilamellar vesicles that have amembrane formed from a lipophilic material and an aqueous interior. Theaqueous portion contains the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNAcomposition. The lipophilic material isolates the aqueous interior froman aqueous exterior, which typically does not include the antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA composition, although in some examples, it may.Liposomes are useful for the transfer and delivery of active ingredientsto the site of action. Because the liposomal membrane is structurallysimilar to biological membranes, when liposomes are applied to a tissue,the liposomal bilayer fuses with bilayer of the cellular membranes. Asthe merging of the liposome and cell progresses, the internal aqueouscontents that include the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA aredelivered into the cell where the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA canspecifically bind to a target RNA. In some cases the liposomes are alsospecifically targeted, e.g., to direct the antisense oligonucleotide orsiRNA to particular cell types.

A liposome containing an antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA can beprepared by a variety of methods. In one example, the lipid component ofa liposome is dissolved in a detergent so that micelles are formed withthe lipid component. For example, the lipid component can be anamphipathic cationic lipid or lipid conjugate. The detergent can have ahigh critical micelle concentration and may be nonionic. Exemplarydetergents include cholate, CHAPS, octylglucoside, deoxycholate, andlauroyl sarcosine. The antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA preparation isthen added to the micelles that include the lipid component. Thecationic groups on the lipid interact with the antisense oligonucleotideor siRNA and condense around the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA toform a liposome. After condensation, the detergent is removed, e.g., bydialysis, to yield a liposomal preparation of antisense oligonucleotideor siRNA.

If necessary a carrier compound that assists in condensation can beadded during the condensation reaction, e.g., by controlled addition.For example, the carrier compound can be a polymer other than a nucleicacid {e.g., spermine or spermidine). pH can also be adjusted to favorcondensation.

Commonly used techniques for preparing lipid aggregates of appropriatesize for use as delivery vehicles include sonication and freeze-thawplus extrusion. Microfluidization can be used when consistently small(50 to 200 nm) and relatively uniform aggregates are desired. Thesemethods are readily adapted to packaging antisense oligonucleotide orsiRNA preparations into liposomes.

Liposomes that are pH-sensitive or negatively-charged entrap nucleicacid molecules rather than complex with them. Since both the nucleicacid molecules and the lipid are similarly charged, repulsion ratherthan complex formation occurs.

Nevertheless, some nucleic acid molecules are entrapped within theaqueous interior of these liposomes. pH-sensitive liposomes may be usedto deliver DNA encoding the thymidine kinase gene to cell monolayers inculture where expression of the exogenous gene was detected in thetarget cells.

One type of liposomal composition includes phospholipids other thannaturally-derived phosphatidylcholine. Neutral liposome compositions,for example, can be formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC)or dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC). Anionic liposome compositionsgenerally are formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol, whileanionic fusogenic liposomes are formed primarily from dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE). Another type of liposomal compositionis formed from phosphatidylcholine (PC) such as, for example, soybeanPC, and egg PC. Another type is formed from mixtures of phospholipidand/or phosphatidylcholine and/or cholesterol.

In some embodiments, cationic liposomes are used. Cationic liposomespossess the advantage of being able to fuse to the cell membrane.Non-cationic liposomes, although not able to fuse as efficiently withthe plasma membrane, are taken up by macrophages in vivo and can be usedto deliver antisense oligonucleotide or siRNAs to macrophages.

Further advantages of liposomes include: liposomes obtained from naturalphospholipids are biocompatible and biodegradable; liposomes canincorporate a wide range of water and lipid soluble drugs; liposomes canprotect encapsulated antisense oligonucleotide or siRNAs in theirinternal compartments from metabolism and degradation. Someconsiderations in the preparation of liposome formulations are the lipidsurface charge, vesicle size and the aqueous volume of the liposomes.

A positively charged synthetic cationic lipid,N-[1-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA)can be used to form small liposomes that interact spontaneously withnucleic acid to form lipid-nucleic acid complexes which are capable offusing with the negatively charged lipids of the cell membranes oftissue culture cells, resulting in delivery of siRNA.

A DOTMA analogue, 1,2-bis(oleoyloxy)-3-(trimethylammonia)propane (DOTAP)can be used in combination with a phospholipid to form DNA-complexingvesicles. LipofectinTM Bethesda Research Laboratories, Gaithersburg,Md.) is an effective agent for the delivery of highly anionic nucleicacids into living tissue culture cells that comprise positively chargedDOTMA liposomes which interact spontaneously with negatively chargedpolynucleotides to form complexes. When enough positively chargedliposomes are used, the net charge on the resulting complexes is alsopositive. Positively charged complexes prepared in this wayspontaneously attach to negatively charged cell surfaces, fuse with theplasma membrane, and efficiently deliver functional nucleic acids into,for example, tissue culture cells. Another commercially availablecationic lipid, 1,2-bis(oleoyloxy)-3,3-(trimethylammonia)propane(“DOTAP”) (Boehringer Mannheim, Indianapolis, Indiana) differs fromDOTMA in that the oleoyl moieties are linked by ester, rather than etherlinkages.

Other reported cationic lipid compounds include those that conjugate toa variety of moieties including, for example, carboxyspermine which maybe conjugated to one of two types of lipids and includes compounds suchas 5- carboxyspermylglycine dioctaoleoylamide (“DOGS”) (TransfectamTM,Promega, Madison, Wisconsin) and dipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine5-carboxyspermyl-amide (“DPPES”).

Another cationic lipid conjugate includes derivatization of the lipidwith cholesterol (“DC-Choi”) which may be formulated into liposomes incombination with DOPE. Lipopolylysine, made by conjugating polylysine toDOPE, may be effective for transfection in the presence of serum. Forcertain cell lines, these liposomes containing conjugated cationiclipids, are said to exhibit lower toxicity and provide more efficienttransfection than the DOTMA-containing compositions. Other commerciallyavailable cationic lipid products include DMRIE and DMRIE-HP (Vical, LaJo 11a, California) and Lipofectamine (DOSPA) (Life Technology, Inc.,Gaithersburg, Md.).

Liposomal formulations may be particularly suited for topicaladministration, and may present an advantage over other formulations.Such advantages include reduced side effects related to high systemicabsorption of the administered drug, increased accumulation of theadministered drug at the desired target, and the ability to administerantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA, into the skin. In someimplementations, liposomes are used for delivering antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA to epidermal cells and also to enhance thepenetration of antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA into dermal tissues,e.g., into skin. For example, the liposomes can be applied topically.

In some embodiments, non-ionic liposomal systems are used to deliver anoligonucleotide to the skin, e.g., using non- ionic surfactant andcholesterol. Non-ionic liposomal formulations comprising Novasome I(glyceryl dilaurate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) andNovasome II (glyceryl distearate/ cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearylether) may be used to deliver an oligonucleotide. Such formulations withantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA are useful for treating adermatological disorder.

Liposomes that include antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA can be madehighly deformable. Such deformability can enable the liposomes topenetrate through pore that are smaller than the average radius of theliposome. For example, transfersomes are a type of deformable liposomes.Transferosomes can be made by adding surface edge activators, usuallysurfactants, to a standard liposomal composition. Transfersomes thatinclude antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA can be delivered, forexample, subcutaneously by infection in order to deliver antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA to keratinocytes in the skin. In order to crossintact mammalian skin, lipid vesicles must pass through a series of finepores, each with a diameter less than 50 nm, under the influence of asuitable transdermal gradient. In addition, due to the lipid properties,these transferosomes can be self-optimizing (adaptive to the shape ofpores, e.g., in the skin), self-repairing, and can frequently reachtheir targets without fragmenting, and often self- loading.

In some embodiments, an oligonucleotide is formulated with a surfactant.Surfactants find wide application in formulations such as emulsions(including microemulsions) and liposomes (see above). In someembodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA is formulated as anemulsion that includes a surfactant. The most common way of classifyingand ranking the properties of the many different types of surfactants,both natural and synthetic, is by the use of the hydrophile/lipophilebalance (HLB). The nature of the hydrophilic group provides a usefulmeans for categorizing the different surfactants used in formulations.

If the surfactant molecule is not ionized, it is classified as anonionic surfactant. Nonionic surfactants find wide application inpharmaceutical products and are usable over a wide range of pH values.In general their HLB values range from 2 to about 18 depending on theirstructure. Nonionic surfactants include nonionic esters such as ethyleneglycol esters, propylene glycol esters, glyceryl esters, polyglycerylesters, sorbitan esters, sucrose esters, and ethoxylated esters.Nonionic alkanolamides and ethers such as fatty alcohol ethoxylates,propoxylated alcohols, and ethoxylated/propoxylated block polymers arealso included in this class. The polyoxy ethylene surfactants are themost popular members of the nonionic surfactant class.

If the surfactant molecule carries a negative charge when it isdissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified asanionic. Anionic surfactants include carboxylates such as soaps, acyllactylates, acyl amides of amino acids, esters of sulfuric acid such asalkyl sulfates and ethoxylated alkyl sulfates, sulfonates such as alkylbenzene sulfonates, acyl isethionates, acyl taurates and sulfosuccinates, and phosphates. The most important members of the anionicsurfactant class are the alkyl sulfates and the soaps. If the surfactantmolecule carries a positive charge when it is dissolved or dispersed inwater, the surfactant is classified as cationic. Cationic surfactantsinclude quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated amines The quaternaryammonium salts are the most used members of this class.

If the surfactant molecule has the ability to carry either a positive ornegative charge, the surfactant is classified as amphoteric. Amphotericsurfactants include acrylic acid derivatives, substituted alkylamides,N-alkylbetaines and phosphatides.

Micelles and other Membranous Formulations

For ease of exposition the micelles and other formulations, compositionsand methods in this section are discussed largely with regard tounmodified antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA compounds. It may beunderstood, however, that these micelles and other formulations,compositions and methods can be practiced with other antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA compounds, e.g., modified antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA compounds. The antisense oligonucleotide orsiRNA compound, e.g., a double-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNAcompound, (e.g., a precursor, e.g., a larger siRNA compound which can beprocessed into a ssiRNA compound, or a DNA which encodes an siRNAcompound, e.g., a double-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNA compound, orprecursor thereof) composition can be provided as a micellarformulation. In some embodiments, “micelles” are a particular type ofmolecular assembly in which amphipathic molecules are arranged in aspherical structure such that all the hydrophobic portions of themolecules are directed inward, leaving the hydrophilic portions incontact with the surrounding aqueous phase. The converse arrangementexists if the environment is hydrophobic.

A mixed micellar formulation suitable for delivery through transdermalmembranes may be prepared by mixing an aqueous solution of the antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA composition, an alkali metal Cs to C22 alkylsulphate, and a micelle forming compounds. Exemplary micelle formingcompounds include lecithin, hyaluronic acid, pharmaceutically acceptablesalts of hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, chamomile extract,cucumber extract, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, monoolein,monooleates, monolaurates, borage oil, evening of primrose oil, menthol,trihydroxy oxo cholanyl glycine and pharmaceutically acceptable saltsthereof, glycerin, polyglycerin, lysine, polylysine, triolein, polyoxyethylene ethers and analogues thereof, polidocanol alkyl ethers andanalogues thereof, chenodeoxycholate, deoxycholate, and mixturesthereof. The micelle forming compounds may be added at the same time orafter addition of the alkali metal alkyl sulphate. Mixed micelles willform with substantially any kind of mixing of the ingredients butvigorous mixing in order to provide smaller size micelles.

In one method a first micellar composition is prepared which containsthe siRNA composition and at least the alkali metal alkyl sulphate. Thefirst micellar composition is then mixed with at least three micelleforming compounds to form a mixed micellar composition. In anothermethod, the micellar composition is prepared by mixing the siRNAcomposition, the alkali metal alkyl sulphate and at least one of themicelle forming compounds, followed by addition of the remaining micelleforming compounds, with vigorous mixing.

Phenol and/or m-cresol may be added to the mixed micellar composition tostabilize the formulation and protect against bacterial growth. In somecases, phenol and/or m-cresol may be added with the micelle formingingredients. An isotonic agent such as glycerin may also be added afterformation of the mixed micellar composition.

For delivery of the micellar formulation as a spray, the formulation canbe put into an aerosol dispenser and the dispenser is charged with apropellant. The propellant, which is under pressure, is in liquid formin the dispenser. The ratios of the ingredients are adjusted so that theaqueous and propellant phases become one, i.e., there is one phase. Ifthere are two phases, it is necessary to shake the dispenser prior todispensing a portion of the contents, e.g., through a metered valve. Thedispensed dose of pharmaceutical agent is propelled from the meteredvalve in a fine spray.

Propellants may include hydrogen-containing chlorofluorocarbons,hydrogen- containing fluorocarbons, dimethyl ether and diethyl ether. Incertain embodiments, HFA 134a (1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane) may be used.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

In some embodiments, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition. Insome embodiments, the composition is sterile. In some embodiments, thecomposition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier compriseswater. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable carriercomprises a buffer. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier comprises a saline solution. In some embodiments, thepharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprises water, a buffer, or asaline solution. In some embodiments, the composition comprises aliposome. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable carriercomprises liposomes, lipids, nanoparticles, proteins, protein-antibodycomplexes, peptides, cellulose, nanogel, or a combination thereof.

The oligonucleotides disclosed herein may be formulated in apharmaceutical composition. The specific concentrations of theoligonucleotide can be determined by experimentation.

For ease of exposition the particles, formulations, compositions andmethods in this section are discussed largely with regard to antisenseoligonucleotide or siRNA compounds. It may be understood, however, thatthese particles, formulations, compositions and methods can be practicedwith modified antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA compounds. In someembodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA compound, e.g., adouble-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNA compound, (e.g., a precursor,e.g., a larger siRNA compound which can be processed into a ssiRNAcompound, or a DNA which encodes an siRNA compound, e.g., adouble-stranded siRNA compound, or ssiRNA compound, or precursorthereof) preparations may be incorporated into a particle, e.g., amicroparticle. Microparticles can be produced by spray-drying, but mayalso be produced by other methods including lyophilization, evaporation,fluid bed drying, vacuum drying, or a combination of these techniques.

The antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA agents may be formulated forpharmaceutical use. Pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprise atherapeutically-effective amount of one or more of the antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agents in any of the preceding embodiments,taken alone or formulated together with one or more pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers (additives), excipient and/or diluents.

The pharmaceutical compositions may be specially formulated foradministration in solid or liquid form, including those adapted for thefollowing: (1) oral administration, for example, drenches (aqueous ornon-aqueous solutions or suspensions), tablets, e.g., those targeted forbuccal, sublingual, and systemic absorption, boluses, powders, granules,pastes for application to the tongue; (2) parenteral administration, forexample, by subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous or epiduralinjection as, for example, a sterile solution or suspension, orsustained-release formulation; (3) topical application, for example, asa cream, ointment, or a controlled-release patch or spray applied to theskin; (4) intravaginally or intrarectally, for example, as a pessary,cream or foam; (5) sublingually; (6) ocularly; (7) transdermally; (8)nasally; (9) inhalation; or (10) endotracheally.

In some embodiments, a “therapeutically-effective amount” is an amountof a compound, material, or composition comprising an oligonucleotideherein which is effective for producing some desired therapeutic effectin at least a sub-population of cells in an animal at a reasonablebenefit/risk ratio applicable to any medical treatment.

In some embodiments, “pharmaceutically acceptable” is employed herein torefer to those compounds, materials, compositions, and/or dosage formswhich are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for usein contact with the tissues of human beings and animals withoutexcessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problem orcomplication, commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

In some embodiments, “pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier” as usedherein means a pharmaceutically-acceptable material, composition orvehicle, such as a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient,manufacturing aid (e.g., lubricant, talc magnesium, calcium or zincstearate, or steric acid), or solvent encapsulating material, involvedin carrying or transporting the subject compound from one organ, orportion of the body, to another organ, or portion of the body. Eachcarrier must be “acceptable” in the sense of being compatible with theother ingredients of the formulation and not injurious to the patient.Some examples of materials which can serve aspharmaceutically-acceptable carriers include: (1) sugars, such aslactose, glucose and sucrose; (2) starches, such as corn starch andpotato starch; (3) cellulose, and its derivatives, such as sodiumcarboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; (4)powdered tragacanth; (5) malt; (6) gelatin; (7) lubricating agents, suchas magnesium state, sodium lauryl sulfate and talc; (8) excipients, suchas cocoa butter and suppository waxes; (9) oils, such as peanut oil,cottonseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil, corn oil andsoybean oil; (10) glycols, such as propylene glycol; (11) polyols, suchas glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; (12) esters,such as ethyl oleate and ethyl laurate; (13) agar; (14) bufferingagents, such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide; (15) alginicacid; (16) pyrogen-free water; (17) isotonic saline; (18) Ringer'ssolution; (19) ethyl alcohol; (20) pH buffered solutions; (21)polyesters, polycarbonates and/or polyanhydrides; (22) bulking agents,such as polypeptides and amino acids (23) serum component, such as serumalbumin, HDL and LDL; and (22) other non-toxic compatible substancesemployed in pharmaceutical formulations.

The formulations may conveniently be presented in unit dosage, or otherrelevant, form. The amount of active ingredient which can be combinedwith a carrier material to produce a single dosage form will varydepending upon the host being treated, the particular mode ofadministration. The amount of active ingredient which can be combinedwith a carrier material to produce a single dosage form will generallybe that amount of the compound which produces a therapeutic effect.Generally, out of one hundred percent, this amount will range from about0.1 percent to about ninety-nine percent of active ingredient, fromabout 5 percent to about 70 percent, or from about 10 percent to about30 percent.

In certain embodiments, a formulation comprises an excipient selectedfrom the group consisting of cyclodextrins, celluloses, liposomes,micelle forming agents, e.g., bile acids, and polymeric carriers, e.g.,polyesters and polyanhydrides; and a compound disclosed herein. Incertain embodiments, an aforementioned formulation renders orally bioavailable a compound disclosed herein.

An agent preparation can be formulated in combination with anotheragent, e.g., another therapeutic agent or an agent that stabilizes anantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA, e.g., a protein that complexes withantisense oligonucleotide or siRNA to form particle. Still other agentsinclude chelators, e.g., EDTA (e.g., to remove divalent cations such asMg2+), salts, RNAse inhibitors (e.g., a broad specificity RNAseinhibitor such as RNAsin) and so forth.

Methods of preparing these formulations or compositions include the stepof bringing into association a compound disclosed herein with thecarrier and, optionally, one or more accessory ingredients. In general,the formulations are prepared by uniformly and intimately bringing intoassociation a compound disclosed herein with liquid carriers, or finelydivided solid carriers, or both, and then, if necessary, shaping theproduct.

In some cases, in order to prolong the effect of a drug, it is desirableto slow the absorption of the drug from subcutaneous or intramuscularinjection. This may be accomplished by the use of a liquid suspension ofcrystalline or amorphous material having poor water solubility. The rateof absorption of the drug then depends upon its rate of dissolutionwhich, in turn, may depend upon crystal size and crystalline form. Insome cases, delayed absorption of a parenterally-administered drug formis accomplished by dissolving or suspending the drug in an oil vehicle.

The compounds disclosed herein may be formulated for administration inany convenient way for use in human or veterinary medicine, by analogywith other pharmaceuticals.

Further provided are pharmaceutical compositions of the oligonucleotidemolecules described. These pharmaceutical compositions include salts ofthe above compounds, e.g., acid addition salts, for example, salts ofhydrochloric, hydrobromic, acetic acid, and benzene sulfonic acid. Thesepharmaceutical formulations or pharmaceutical compositions can comprisea pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions (e.g. oligonucleotidesand/or lipid nanoparticle formulations thereof) further compriseconventional pharmaceutical excipients and/or additives. Suitablepharmaceutical excipients include preservatives, flavoring agents,stabilizers, antioxidants, osmolality adjusting agents, buffers, and pHadjusting agents. Suitable additives include physiologicallybiocompatible buffers (e.g., trimethylamine hydrochloride), addition ofchelants (such as, for example, DTPA or DTPA-bisamide) or calciumchelate complexes (as for example calcium DTPA, CaNaDTPA-bisamide), or,optionally, additions of calcium or sodium salts (for example, calciumchloride, calcium ascorbate, calcium gluconate or calcium lactate). Inaddition, antioxidants and suspending agents can be used.

In some embodiments, the siRNA and LNP compositions and formulationsprovided herein for use in pulmonary delivery further comprise one ormore surfactants. Suitable surfactants or surfactant components forenhancing the uptake of the compositions include synthetic and naturalas well as full and truncated forms of surfactant protein A, surfactantprotein B, surfactant protein C, surfactant protein D and surfactantProtein E, di-saturated phosphatidylcholine (other than dipalmitoyl),dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylcholine,phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylethanolamine,phosphatidylserine; phosphatidic acid, ubiquinones,lysophosphatidylethanolamine, lysophosphatidylcholine,palmitoyl-lysophosphatidylcholine, dehydroepiandrosterone, dolichols,sulfatidic acid, glycerol-3-phosphate, dihydroxyacetone phosphate,glycerol, glycero-3-phosphocholine, dihydroxyacetone, palmitate,cytidine diphosphate (CDP) diacylglycerol, CDP choline, choline, cholinephosphate; as well as natural and artificial lamellar bodies which arethe natural carrier vehicles for the components of surfactant, omega-3fatty acids, polyenic acid, polyenoic acid, lecithin, palmitinic acid,non-ionic block copolymers of ethylene or propylene oxides,polyoxypropylene, monomeric and polymeric, polyoxyethylene, monomericand polymeric, poly (vinyl amine) with dextran and/or alkanoyl sidechains, Brij 35, Triton X-100 and synthetic surfactants ALEC, Exosurf,Survan and Atovaquone, among others. These surfactants can be usedeither as single or part of a multiple component surfactant in aformulation, or as covalently bound additions to the 5′ and/or 3′ endsof the nucleic acid component of a pharmaceutical composition herein.

Gene Therapy Vector

In some embodiments, double-stranded RNAi agents or antisenseoligonucleotides are produced in a cell in vivo, e.g., from exogenousDNA templates that are delivered into the cell. For example, the DNAtemplates can be inserted into vectors and used as gene therapy vectors.Gene therapy vectors can be delivered to a subject by, for example,intravenous injection, local administration, or by stereotacticinjection. The pharmaceutical preparation of the gene therapy vector caninclude the gene therapy vector in an acceptable diluent, or cancomprise a slow release matrix in which the gene delivery vehicle isimbedded. The DNA templates, for example, can include two transcriptionunits, one that produces a transcript that includes the top strand of adsRNA agent and one that produces a transcript that includes the bottomstrand of a dsRNA agent. When the templates are transcribed, the dsRNAagent is produced, and processed into siRNA agent fragments that mediategene silencing.

Delivery Vehicles Based upon Complexation of Nucleic Acid

In some embodiments, complexation of oligonucleotide therapeutics withcationic agents inhibits nuclease from degrading the oligonucleotide byforming a steric barrier and by inhibiting nuclease binding byneutralizing anionic charge. The process of forming compact particles ofnucleic acids from their extended chains is called condensation, whichmay be achieved by the addition of multiply-charged cationic species.Multiple positive charges can either be covalently attached to oneanother in a polycation or non-covalently associated with one another ina complex such as the surface of a cationic liposome. The resultingpolycation-polyanion interaction is a colloidal dispersion where thenucleic acid particles vary in size and shape depending on the nucleicacid and the condensing cation. In general, the particles are greaterthan 20 nm in size, and—in the absence of agents to modulate surfacecharge such as polyethylene glycol (PEG)—have surface charges >20 mV.

The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of nanoparticles are dependentupon their size and charge. Upon iv administration, large (>200 nm)and/or highly positively charged (surface charge >20 mV) are primarilydistributed among endothelial tissues and macrophages in the liver andspleen and have a half-life of circulation less than 2 hours. Reductionin size (<100 nm) and surface charge (˜0 mV) results increasedcirculation times. Local administration of positively charged polyplexesresults in association with cells at site of application such asepithelial cells.

Strategies for Cytoplasmic Delivery

There are a variety of strategies to facilitate cytoplasmic delivery ofoligonucleotides including endosomal buffering (i.e. proton sponge),titratable amphiphiles, cell penetrating peptides and masked membranelytic polymers.

The mechanism of endosomal buffering (i.e. proton sponge) to facilitateendosomolysis relies on the ability of agents such as polyamines tobuffer endosomal/lysosomal compartments. The resistance to acidificationis postulated to result in increased osmotic pressure that results inlysis of the lysosomal compartment. Titratable amphiphiles arepolymers/peptides whose structure is pH-dependent in such a way that atacidic pH they are hydrophobic and membrane disruptive. Typically,titratable amphiphiles are polyanionic polymers or peptides withcarboxylic acids that become neutral and membrane disruptive uponacidification. Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) are cationic peptides,with a high propensity of guanidinium groups, that enter cells withoutany apparent membrane lysis. Masked lytic polymers are membranedisruptive polymers whose membrane interactivity is attenuated byreversible covalent modification. Like titratable amphiphiles, themechanism of endosomolysis by masked polymers relies on the use ofamphipathic polymers whose ability to lyse membranes is controlled suchthat the activity is only functional in the acidic environment of theendosome/lysosome. In the case of titratable amphiphiles, the mechanismof control is a reversible protonation of carboxylic acids. In the caseof masked polymers, the control of membrane activity is the irreversiblecleavage of a group that inhibits membrane interactivity of the polymer.

Liposomal Delivery Systems

Nucleic acids entrapped in lipids (lipoplexes) are a common vehicle forthe delivery of nucleic acids. Cationic lipids form electrostaticcomplexes between nucleic acid and lipids. In addition to the cationiclipids, there are typically neutral or anionic helper lipids whichinclude unsaturated fatty acids and are postulated to assist in fusionbetween the lipoplex and the cellular membrane, and PEGylated lipids,which prevent aggregation during formulation and storage andnon-specific interactions in vivo.

Lipids are water insoluble and nucleic acids are organic solventinsoluble. To mix these components in a controlled manner such thatformulations are repeatable and relatively homogenous in size,detergents or water-miscible organic solvents such as ethanol are used.After formation of electrostatically-associated complexes, theamphipathic detergent or solvent is then removed by dialysis or solventexchange. Depending on the components and the mixing procedure ispossible to formulate lipoplexes that are well less than 100 nm.

Although the transfection efficiencies of lipoplexes are difficult topredict and optimization is empirical, there are a few design featuresidentified to aid transfection efficiency in vivo: pH-sensitive cationiclipids, the use of unsaturation in the lipid chains and thehydrophobic-hydrophilic balance of PEG-lipids to balance circulationtimes and transfection efficiencies.

There is a correlation between the pKa of the amine groups of thecationic lipid, which is buffer in the range of the endosomal/lysosomalpathway (pH 4-7), and transfection ability. To synthesize lipids withsuch pKa values, lipids commonly have closely-spaced amines or imidazolegroups. The effect of these weakly basic amine groups in the lipoplexesproduces several attractive attributes that facilitate in vivotransfection: reduced surface charge at neutral pH thereby decreasingnonspecific interactions in vivo, increased surface charge in acidenvironment of endosomes and lysosomes thereby increasing electrostaticinteractions with the cellular membrane in these compartments andproviding buffering groups that can provide endosomolytic activity viathe proton sponge mechanism.

Another common motif observed in cationic and helper lipids used inlipoplexes is the presence of unsaturation in their component fattyacids with oleic (18 carbon chain with one double bond) and linoleic (18carbons with 2 double bonds) being very common. The incorporation ofthese groups increases fluidity of membranes, aids in the formation offusogenic lipid structures and facilitates the release of cationiclipids from nucleic acids.

PEG-conjugated lipids are incorporated into lipoplexes to aid in theformation of nonaggregating small complexes and for the prevention ofnonspecific interactions in vivo. Due to the hydrophilicity of PEG,their lipid conjugates are not permanently associated with lipoplexesand diffuse from the complexes with dilution and interaction withamphiphilic components in vivo. This loss of PEG shielding from thesurface of the lipoplexes aids in transfection efficiency. In general,longer saturated fatty acid chains increase circulation whileunsaturation and shorter chains decrease circulation.

A commonly invoked tumor targeting mechanism is the EnhancedPermeability and Retention (EPR) effect, which is when nanoparticlesaccumulate in tumor tissue much more than they do in normal tissues dueto the leaky disorganized vasculature associated with tumor tissues andtheir lack of lymphatic drainage. EPR-based targeting requires longcirculating particles.

Polymer Based Delivery Vehicles

Like lipoplexes, polymer-based transfection vehicles (polyplexes)provide nuclease protection and condensation of larger nucleic acids.Polyplexes are based upon cationic polymers that form electrostaticcomplexes with anionic nucleic acids. Polycations may be purelysynthetic (such as polyethyleneimine), naturally occurring (such ashistones, protamine, spermine and spermidine) or synthetic polymersbased upon cationic amino acids such as ornithine, lysine and arginine.

Polycations form electrostatic complexes with polyanionic nucleic acids.The strength of the association is dependent upon the size of thenucleic acid and the size and charge density of the polycation.

There are three common strategies to improve the stability and surfacecharge of polyplexes to improve the circulation and targeting of abilityof polyplexes: crosslinking of polycation, addition of a syntheticpolyanion and conjugation of PEG.

Crosslinking, also called lateral stabilization and caging, is theformation of covalent polyamine-polyamine bonds aftercomplexation/condensation of the nucleic acid. The crosslinking isaccomplished by the addition of bifunctional, amine-reactive reagentsthat form a 3-D network of bonds around the nucleic acid, thereby makingthe polyplex resistant to displacement by salts and polyelectrolytes.The stability of the polyplexes is such that the nucleic acid is nolonger active unless a mechanism of reversibility is introduced to allowfor release of the nucleic acid. A common way to introduce reversibilityis the use of disulfide-containing crosslinking reagent that can bereduced in the cytoplasm allowing release of nucleic acid therapeutic.

A common method to reduce the surface charge of a polyplex is theconjugation of PEG, a method commonly known as steric stabilization. Theresulting PEG modified polyplexes have prolonged circulation in vivo.PEG modifications can be added to the size chains of polyamines—eitherbefore or after polyplex formation- or at the end of the polymer as ablock copolymer of PEG and polycation.

Crosslinking and PEGylation are often combined to make stabilizedpolyplexes of reduced surface charge for systemic administration thatcan either be passively or actively targeted. As observed forlipoplexes, a variety of small molecule (such as GalNAc, RGD and folate)and biologic targeting ligands (such as transferrin and antibodies) maybe conjugated to PEG-modified polyplexes for tissues selectivetargeting.

The most commonly used polymer for polyplexes- and the originator of theproton sponge mechanism- is polyethylenimine (PEI). PEI's high densityof amine groups endows it with high charge density and a continuum ofamine pKa's that buffer in the entire pH range of the endosome. Thebuffering capacity of PEI may be mimicked by the addition of weaklybasic imidazole groups.

Oligonucleotide vehicle formulation. The solution conditions in whichthe oligonucleotide is dissolved, or its delivery vehicle is dispersedmay play a role in its delivery. Hypotonic and hypertonic solutionconditions may aid in cytoplasmic delivery for systemic and locallyadministration.

Methods and Routes for Administration

In embodiments disclosed herein, the accumulation and/or expression ofANGPTL7 may be suppressed or inhibited by at least 10%. In embodimentsdisclosed herein, the ocular tissue cell is conjunctiva, sclera,trabecular meshwork (TM) or cornea. In certain embodiments, the oculartissue is TM, such as human TM. In certain embodiments, the TM cell thatis the subject may be located in vivo in a mammal

Embodiments disclosed herein also provide a method of treating glaucomain a patient in need thereof comprising administering to the patient anoligonucleotide in an amount sufficient to suppress accumulation ofANGPTL7 in an ocular tissue cell, wherein the RNA is a double-strandedmolecule with a first strand of RNA that is a ribonucleotide sequencethat corresponds to a nucleotide sequence encoding ANGPTL7 and a secondstrand of RNA that is a ribonucleotide sequence that is complementary tothe nucleotide sequence encoding ANGPTL7, wherein the first and thesecond ribonucleotide strands are complementary strands that hybridizeto each other to form the double-stranded molecule, and wherein thedouble-stranded molecule suppresses accumulation of ANGPTL7 in theocular tissue cell. In certain embodiments, the ocular tissue cell maybe conjunctiva, sclera, trabecular meshwork (TM) or cornea. In certainembodiments, the glaucoma is an open-angle glaucoma. In certainembodiments, the expression of ANGPTL7 or certain ANGPTL7 transcriptsare inhibited by at least 10%.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide a method of making and identifyingan isolated ANGPTL7-specific RNA that inhibits or modulates ANGPTL7expression in a cell involving (a) generating an RNA that is adouble-stranded molecule with a first strand of RNA that is aribonucleotide sequence that corresponds to a nucleotide sequenceencoding ANGPTL7 and a second strand of RNA that is a ribonucleotidesequence that is complementary to the nucleotide sequence encodingANGPTL7, wherein the first and the second ribonucleotide strands arecomplementary strands that hybridize to each other to form thedouble-stranded molecule, and wherein the double-stranded moleculesuppresses or modulates accumulation of ANGPTL7 or certain ANPTL7transcripts in an ocular tissue cell; and (b) screening the RNA todetermine whether the RNA inhibits or modulates ANGPTL7 expression in acell. In certain embodiments, the ocular tissue cell is conjunctiva,sclera, trabecular meshwork (TM) or cornea. The ANGPTL7 transcripts maybe inhibited or modulated by at least 10%, or may be inhibited ormodulated by at least 50%, or may be inhibited or modulated by at least80%. In certain embodiments, the RNA is introduced by topicaladministration.

Conditions mediated by ANGPTL7 activity include, but are not limited toglaucoma (including, for example, primary open-angle glaucoma, primaryangle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma,exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenital glaucoma,inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondary tointraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma and absolute glaucoma) , ocularhypertension, obesity, cancer, nevus sebaceous of Jadassohn, hepatitis Cinfection, osteoarthritis, keratoconus, fibrosis, hypoxia, abnormalitiesof lipid metabolism, oculocutaneous albinism, scleroderma, polymyositis,Crohn's disease, psoriasis, or rosacea. In some embodiments, thecondition mediated by ANGPTL7 activity is an ocular condition. Ocularconditions include, but are not limited to, retinal artery occlusion,eyelid disease, panophthalmitis, ocular toxoplasmosis, angioid streaks,genetic eye tumor, retrobulbar hemorrhage, lacrimal gland adenoid cysticcarcinoma, exfoliation syndrome, pharyngoconjunctival fever, takayasuarteritis, dry eye syndrome, macular holes, retinal vein occlusion,pterygium, vitreous body disease, ocular hypertension, retinopathy,cataract, ocular onchocerciasis, eye neoplasm, keratoconjunctivitissicca, congenital nystagmus, genetic eye diseases, orbital myositis,glaucoma, optic neuritis, mixed cell uveal melanoma, uveitis, oculartuberculosis, age-related macular degeneration, optic papillitis, eyelidneoplasm, ocular posterior capsular rupture, eye hemorrhage, eyeinjuries, ocular motility disease, corneal disease, acute retinalnecrosis syndrome, eye infection, cycloplegia, microphthalmia, anterioruveitis, retinal drusen, diabetic eye disease, ocular foreign bodies,myopic macular degeneration, eye allergy, iritis, aniseikonia, retinalvasculitis, opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome, ocular vascular disease,graves ophthalmopathy, lens disease, Sjogren syndrome, maculardegeneration, or cytomegalovirus retinitis.

Routes of Delivery

A composition that includes an antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agentcan be delivered to a subject by a variety of routes. Exemplary routesinclude: intravenous, subcutaneous, topical, rectal, anal, vaginal,nasal, endotracheally, inhalation, pulmonary, ocular.

In one embodiment, a patient is prophylactically or therapeuticallyadministered an agent that reduces or modulates the expression ofANGPTL7. The inventive method may prevent or delay an increase inintraocular pressure, may reduce associated nerve loss, may conferprotection on retinal sensory cells, etc. Administration may be by anyocular route. One example is topical application, with the ANGPTL7reducing agent administered in a formulation of eye drops, cream,ointment, gel, salve, etc. Another example is intraocular injection withthe ANGPTL7 reducing agent administered subconjunctivally,intravitreally, retrobulbarly, within the crystalline lens via piercingthe lens capsule. Another example provides the ANGPTL7 reducing ormodulating agent to the eye on or in a formulation such as a liposome,microsphere, microcapsule, biocompatible matrix, gel, polymer,nanoparticle, nanocapsule, etc. Another example provides the ANGPTL7reducing or modulating agent on or in a device such as a device fortransscleral delivery, or another intraocular device using, for example,iontophoresis or another type of release mechanism (controlled or notcontrolled), as known by one skilled in the art. Another exampleprovides the ANGPTL7 reducing or modulating agent in conjunction withgene therapy, as known by one skilled in the art.

The antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent can be incorporated intopharmaceutical compositions suitable for administration. Suchcompositions typically include one or more species of antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agent and a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier. As used herein the language “pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier” is intended to include any and all solvents, dispersion media,coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, isotonic and absorptiondelaying agents, and the like, compatible with pharmaceuticaladministration. The use of such media and agents for pharmaceuticallyactive substances is well known in the art. Except insofar as anyconventional media or agent is incompatible with the active compound,use thereof in the compositions is contemplated. Supplementary activecompounds can also be incorporated into the compositions.

In embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions described herein can beformulated for oral, parental, intramuscular, transdermal, intravenous,inter-arterial, nasal, vaginal, sublingual, and subungual. Further, theroute also includes, but is not limited to auricular, buccal,conjunctival, cutaneous, dental, electro-osmosis, endocervical,endosinusial, endotracheal, enteral, epidural, extra-amniotic,extracorporeal, hemodialysis, infiltration, interstitial,intra-abdominal, intra-amniotic, intra-arterial, intra-articular,intrabiliary, intrachronchial, intrabursal, intracardiac,intracartilagenous, intracaudal, mtracavernous, intracavitary,intracerebral, intraci sternal, intracorneal, intracoronary,intracorporus cavernosum, intradermal, intradiscal, intraducatal,intraduodenal, intradural, intraepidermal, mtraesophageal, intragastric,intragingival, intraileal, intralesional, intralumical, intralymphatic,intramedullary, intrameningeal, intraocular, intraovarian,mtrapericardial, intraperitoneal, intrapleural, intrapulmonary,intrasinal, intrasynovial, intratendinous, intratesticular, intrathecal,intrathoracic, intratubular, intratumor, intratympanic, intrauterine,intravascular, intravenous bolus, intravenous drip, intraventricular,intravesical, intravitreal, iontophoresis, irrigation, laryngeal, nasal,nasogastric, occlusive dressing technique, ophthalmic, oropharyngeal,percutaneous, periarticular, peridural, periodontal, rectal,respirator}-, retrobulbar, soft tissue, subarachnoid, subconjunctival,subcutaneous, submucosal, topical, transmucosal, transplacental,transtracheal, transtympanic, ureteral, or urethal. In particularembodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions are formulated forintraocular administration, e.g., intravitreal, or topical.

The route and site of administration may be chosen to enhance targeting.For example, to target muscle cells, intramuscular injection into themuscles of interest would be a logical choice. Lung cells might betargeted by administering the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agentin aerosol form.

Exemplary formulations for topical administration include those in whichthe antisense oligonucleotides or dsRNAs are in admixture with a topicaldelivery agent such as lipids, liposomes, fatty acids, fatty acidesters, steroids, chelating agents and surfactants. Exemplary lipids andliposomes include neutral (e.g. dioleoyl-phosphatidyl DOPEetlianolaniine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl choline DMPC,distearolyphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g. dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g. dioleoyltetramemylaminopropyl DOTAPand dioleoyl-phosphatidyl ethanolamine DOTMA).

For topical or other administration, antisense oligonucleotides ordsRNAs may be encapsulated within liposomes or may form complexesthereto, in particular to cationic liposomes. In some cases, antisenseoligonucleotides or dsRNAs may be complexed to lipids, in particular tocationic lipids.

A topical formulation may be administered by any ophthalmogical vehicle,as know to one skilled in the art. Examples include, but are not limitedto, eye droppers, satchels, applicators, etc. The amount andconcentration of the formulation may depend upon the diluent, deliverysystem or device selected, clinical condition of the patient, sideeffects expected, stability of the compounds of the composition,presence and severity of other pathology, dosing frequency, activeagent, etc.

Compositions and formulations for oral administration include powders orgranules, microparticulates, nanoparticulates, suspensions or solutionsin water or non-aqueous media, capsules, gel capsules, sachets, tabletsor rninitablets. Thickeners, flavoring agents, diluents, emulsifiers,dispersing aids or binders may be desirable. Exemplary surfactantsinclude fatty acids and or esters or salts thereof, bile acids and/orsalts thereof. In some cases, penetration enhancers, for example, fattyacids salts are combined with bile acids salts. An exemplary combinationis the sodium salt of lauric acid, capric acid and UDCA. Furtherpenetration enhancers include polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether,polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether. Oligonucleotides may be deliveredorally, in granular form including sprayed dried particles, or complexedto form micro or nanoparticles.

Compositions and formulations for pulmonary administration may includesterile aqueous solutions that may also contain buffers, diluents andother suitable additives such as, but not limited to, penetrationenhancers, carrier compounds and other pharmaceutically acceptablecarriers or excipients.

Dosage

In one aspect, provided is a method of administering an antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agent to a subject (e.g., a human subject). Themethod includes administering a unit dose of the antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agent that is 14-30 nucleotides (nt) long, forexample, 21-23 nt, and is complementary to a target RNA (e.g., ANGPTL7),and optionally includes at least one 3′ overhang 1-5 nucleotide long.

For topical administration, examples of concentrations that may be usedinclude but are not limited to, less than 1μg/mL, 1 μg/mL to 5μg/mL, 5μgg/mL to 10 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL to 50 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL, 100μg/mL to 0.5 mg/mL, 0.5 mg/mL to 2.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL, 5 mg/mLto 10 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL to 15 mg/mL, 15 mg/mL to 30 mg/mL, and greaterthan 30 mg/mL. For topical administration, examples of dosing regimensthat may be used include but are not limited to, hourly, half-daily,daily, weekly, biweekly, monthly, quarterly, three times a year, twice ayear, yearly, every two years, every three years, etc. Intervals betweendoses may be regular or varied. As one example, doses may beadministered hourly or daily pre- and post-surgery for one week, forseveral weeks, or for several months, then may be administered twice ayear or once a year until the desired reduction in intraocular pressureis achieved. As another example, doses may be administered daily orweekly pre- and/or post-surgery for one week, for several weeks, forseveral months, or for several years until the desired reduction inintraocular pressure achieved.

The defined amount can be an amount effective to treat or prevent adisease or disorder, e.g., a disease or disorder associated with thetarget RNA. The unit dose, for example, can be administered by injection(e.g., intravenous, subcutaneous or intramuscular), an inhaled dose, ora topical application. In some embodiments dosages may be less than 10,5, 2, 1, or 0.1 mg/kg of body weight.

In some embodiments, the unit dose is administered less frequently thanonce a day, e.g., less than every 2, 4, 8 or 30 days. In someembodiments, the unit dose is not administered with a frequency {e.g.,not a regular frequency). For example, the unit dose may be administereda single time.

In some embodiments, the effective dose is administered with othertraditional therapeutic modalities. For example, a therapeutic agentuseful for treating a disease or disorder affecting the eye.

In some embodiments, a subject is administered an initial dose and oneor more maintenance doses of an antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAagent. The maintenance dose or doses can be the same or lower than theinitial dose, e.g., one-half less of the initial dose. A maintenanceregimen can include treating the subject with a dose or doses rangingfrom 0.01 μg to 15 mg/kg of body weight per day, e.g., 10, 1, 0.1, 0.01,0.001, or 0.00001 mg per kg of bodyweight per day. The maintenance dosesare, for example, administered no more than once every 2, 5, 10, or 30days. Further, the treatment regimen may last for a period of time whichwill vary depending upon the nature of the particular disease, itsseverity and the overall condition of the patient. In certainembodiments the dosage may be delivered no more than once per day, e.g.,no more than once per 24, 36, 48, or more hours, e.g., no more than oncefor every 5 or 8 days.

Following treatment, the patient can be monitored for changes in hiscondition and for alleviation of the symptoms of the disease state. Thedosage of the compound may either be increased in the event the patientdoes not respond significantly to current dosage levels, or the dose maybe decreased if an alleviation of the symptoms of the disease state isobserved, if the disease state is ablated, or if undesired side-effectsare observed. The effective dose can be administered in a single dose orin two or more doses, as desired or considered appropriate under thespecific circumstances. If desired to facilitate repeated or frequentinfusions, implantation of a delivery device, e.g., a pump,semi-permanent stent (e.g., intravenous, intraperitoneal, intracisternalor intracapsular), or reservoir may be advisable.

The antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agents can be administered tomammals, particularly large mammals such as nonhuman primates or humansin a number of ways.

In some embodiments, the administration of the antisense oligonucleotideor dsRNA agent is parenteral, e.g., intravenous (e.g., as a bolus or asa diffusible infusion), intradermal, intraperitoneal, intramuscular,intrathecal, intraventricular, intracranial, subcutaneous, transmucosal,buccal, sublingual, endoscopic, rectal, oral, vaginal, topical,inhalation, pulmonary, intranasal, urethral or ocular. Administrationcan be provided by the subject or by another person, e.g., a health careprovider. The medication can be provided in measured doses or in adispenser which delivers a metered dose. Selected modes of delivery arediscussed elsewhere herein.

Methods and Uses

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are methods of administering acomposition described herein to a subject. Some embodiments relate touse a composition described herein, such as administering thecomposition to a subject. In some embodiments, the administrationcomprises an injection.

Some embodiments relate to a method of treating a disorder in a subjectin need thereof. Some embodiments relate to use of a compositiondescribed herein in the method of treatment. Some embodiments includeadministering a composition described herein to a subject with thedisorder. In some embodiments, the administration treats the disorder inthe subject. In some embodiments, the composition treats the disorder inthe subject.

In some embodiments, the treatment comprises prevention, inhibition, orreversion of the disorder in the subject. Some embodiments relate to useof a composition described herein in the method of preventing,inhibiting, or reversing the disorder. Some embodiments relate to amethod of preventing, inhibiting, or reversing a disorder a disorder ina subject in need thereof. Some embodiments include administering acomposition described herein to a subject with the disorder. In someembodiments, the administration prevents, inhibits, or reverses thedisorder in the subject. In some embodiments, the composition prevents,inhibits, or reverses the disorder in the subject.

Some embodiments relate to a method of preventing a disorder a disorderin a subject in need thereof. Some embodiments relate to use of acomposition described herein in the method of preventing the disorder.Some embodiments include administering a composition described herein toa subject with the disorder. In some embodiments, the administrationprevents the disorder in the subject. In some embodiments, thecomposition prevents the disorder in the subject.

Some embodiments relate to a method of inhibiting a disorder a disorderin a subject in need thereof. Some embodiments relate to use of acomposition described herein in the method of inhibiting the disorder.Some embodiments include administering a composition described herein toa subject with the disorder. In some embodiments, the administrationinhibits the disorder in the subject. In some embodiments, thecomposition inhibits the disorder in the subject.

Some embodiments relate to a method of reversing a disorder a disorderin a subject in need thereof. Some embodiments relate to use of acomposition described herein in the method of reversing the disorder.Some embodiments include administering a composition described herein toa subject with the disorder. In some embodiments, the administrationreverses the disorder in the subject. In some embodiments, thecomposition reverses the disorder in the subject.

In some embodiments, the administration comprises an injection. In someembodiments, the administration is to an eye. In some embodiments, theadministration is intravenous.

Disorders

Some embodiments of the methods described herein include treating adisorder in a subject in need thereof. In some embodiments, the disorderis or includes a disorder with high ANGPTL7 expression. In someembodiments, the disorder is an eye disorder. In some embodiments, thedisorder comprises a disorder associated with high intraocular pressure.In some embodiments, the disorder is glaucoma. In some embodiments, theglaucoma is a glaucoma subtype. In some embodiments, the glaucomasubtype is non-specific glaucoma. In some embodiments, the glaucomasubtype is primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). In some embodiments, theglaucoma subtype is primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). In someembodiments, the glaucoma includes a glaucoma symptom. In someembodiments, the glaucoma symptom includes an intraocular pressuremeasurement. In some embodiments, the glaucoma symptom includes need fora glaucoma surgery. In some embodiments, the glaucoma symptom includesneed for a glaucoma medication.

Subjects

Some embodiments of the methods described herein include treatment of asubject. Examples of subjects include vertebrates, animals, mammals,dogs, cats, cattle, rodents, mice, rats, primates, monkeys, and humans.In some embodiments, the subject is a vertebrate. In some embodiments,the subject is an animal In some embodiments, the subject is a mammal Insome embodiments, the subject is a dog. In some embodiments, the subjectis a cat. In some embodiments, the subject is a cattle. In someembodiments, the subject is a mouse. In some embodiments, the subject isa rat. In some embodiments, the subject is a primate. In someembodiments, the subject is a monkey. In some embodiments, the subjectis an animal, a mammal, a dog, a cat, cattle, a rodent, a mouse, a rat,a primate, or a monkey. In some embodiments, the subject is a human.

Baseline Measurements

Some embodiments of the methods described herein include obtaining abaseline measurement from a subject. For example, in some embodiments, abaseline measurement is obtained from the subject prior to treating thesubject. In some embodiments, the baseline measurement comprises abaseline pressure measurement. In some embodiments, the baselinemeasurement is a baseline intraocular pressure measurement. In someembodiments, the baseline measurement is incidence of glaucoma. In someembodiments, the baseline measurement is incidence of a glaucomasubtype. In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is incidence of aglaucoma symptom.

In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is obtained by performingan assay such as an immunoassay, a colorimetric assay, or a fluorescenceassay, on the sample obtained from the subject. In some embodiments, thebaseline measurement is obtained by an immunoassay, a colorimetricassay, or a fluorescence assay. In some embodiments, the baselinemeasurement is obtained by PCR.

In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is a baseline ANGPTL7protein measurement. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 proteinmeasurement comprises a baseline ANGPTL7 protein level. In someembodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 protein level is indicated as a massor percentage of ANGPTL7 protein per sample weight. In some embodiments,the baseline ANGPTL7 protein level is indicated as a mass or percentageof ANGPTL7 protein per sample volume. In some embodiments, the baselineANGPTL7 protein level is indicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7protein per total protein within the sample. In some embodiments, thebaseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement is a baseline circulating ANGPTL7protein measurement. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 proteinmeasurement is obtained by an assay such as an immunoassay, acolorimetric assay, or a fluorescence assay.

In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is a baseline ANGPTL7 mRNAmeasurement. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurementcomprises a baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA level. In some embodiments, thebaseline ANGPTL7 mRNA level is indicated as a mass or percentage ofANGPTL7 mRNA per sample weight. In some embodiments, the baselineANGPTL7 mRNA level is indicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNAper sample volume. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA levelis indicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNA per total mRNAwithin the sample. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA levelis indicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNA per total nucleicacids within the sample. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNAlevel is indicated relative to another mRNA level, such as an mRNA levelof a housekeeping gene, within the sample. In some embodiments, thebaseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement is obtained by an assay such as apolymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. In some embodiments, the PCRcomprises quantitative PCR (qPCR). In some embodiments, the PCRcomprises reverse transcription of the ANGPTL7 mRNA.

Some embodiments of the methods described herein include obtaining asample from a subject. In some embodiments, the baseline measurement isobtained in a sample obtained from the subject. In some embodiments, thesample is obtained from the subject prior to administration or treatmentof the subject with a composition described herein. In some embodiments,a baseline measurement is obtained in a sample obtained from the subjectprior to administering the composition to the subject. In someembodiments, the sample comprises ocular or eye tissue.

In some embodiments, the sample comprises a fluid. In some embodiments,the sample is a fluid sample. In some embodiments, the sample is ablood, plasma, or serum sample. In some embodiments, the fluid comprisesan eye fluid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises an intraocularfluid.

In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is obtained noninvasively.In some embodiments, the baseline measurement is obtained directly fromthe subject.

Effects

In some embodiments, the composition or administration of thecomposition affects a measurement such as a pressure measurement, anintraocular pressure measurement, incidence of glaucoma, incidence of aglaucoma subtype, or incidence of a glaucoma symptom, relative to thebaseline measurement. In some embodiments, the measurement is anintraocular pressure measurement.

Some embodiments of the methods described herein include obtaining themeasurement from a subject. For example, the measurement may be obtainedfrom the subject after treating the subject. In some embodiments, themeasurement is obtained in a second sample (such as a fluid or tissuesample described herein) obtained from the subject after the compositionis administered to the subject. In some embodiments, the measurement isan indication that the disorder has been treated.

In some embodiments, the measurement is obtained by an assay asdescribed herein. For example, the assay may comprise an immunoassay, acolorimetric assay, a fluorescence assay, or a PCR assay.

In some embodiments, the measurement is obtained within 1 week, within 2weeks, within 3 weeks, within 1 month, within 2 months, within 3 months,within 6 months, within 1 year, within 2 years, within 3 years, within 4years, or within 5 years after the administration of the composition. Insome embodiments, the measurement is obtained after 1 week, after 2weeks, after 3 weeks, after 1 month, after 2 months, after 3 months,after 6 months, after 1 year, after 2 years, after 3 years, after 4years, or after 5 years, following the administration of thecomposition.

In some embodiments, the composition reduces the measurement relative tothe baseline measurement. In some embodiments, the reduction is measuredin a second tissue sample obtained from the subject after administeringthe composition to the subject. In some embodiments, the reduction ismeasured directly in the subject after administering the composition tothe subject. In some embodiments, the measurement is decreased by about2.5% or more, about 5% or more, or about 7.5% or more, relative to thebaseline measurement. In some embodiments, the measurement is decreasedby about 10% or more, relative to the baseline measurement. In someembodiments, the measurement is decreased by about 20% or more, about30% or more, about 40% or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more,about 70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more, relative to thebaseline measurement. In some embodiments, the measurement is decreasedby no more than about 2.5%, no more than about 5%, or no more than about7.5%, relative to the baseline measurement. In some embodiments, themeasurement is decreased by no more than about 10%, relative to thebaseline measurement. In some embodiments, the measurement is decreasedby no more than about 20%, no more than about 30%, no more than about40%, no more than about 50%, no more than about 60%, no more than about70%, no more than about 80%, no more than about 90%, or no more thanabout 100% relative to the baseline measurement. In some embodiments,the measurement is decreased by 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%,60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%, or by a range defined by any of the twoaforementioned percentages.

In some embodiments, the measurement is an ANGPTL7 protein measurement.In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement comprises anANGPTL7 protein level. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein level isindicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 protein per sample weight.In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein level is indicated as a mass orpercentage of ANGPTL7 protein per sample volume. In some embodiments,the ANGPTL7 protein level is indicated as a mass or percentage ofANGPTL7 protein per total protein within the sample. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is a circulating ANGPTL7protein measurement. In some embodiments, the baseline ANGPTL7 proteinmeasurement is obtained by an assay such as an immunoassay, acolorimetric assay, or a fluorescence assay.

In some embodiments, the composition reduces the ANGPTL7 proteinmeasurement relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. Insome embodiments, the composition reduces circulating ANGPTL7 proteinlevels relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In someembodiments, the composition reduces tissue ANGPTL7 protein levels (suchas ocular ANGPTL7 protein levels) relative to the baseline ANGPTL7protein measurement. In some embodiments, the reduced ANGPTL7 proteinlevels are measured in a second sample obtained from the subject afteradministering the composition to the subject.

In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased byabout 2.5% or more, about 5% or more, or about 7.5% or more, relative tothe baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In some embodiments, theANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by about 10% or more, relativeto the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In some embodiments, theANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by about 20% or more, about 30%or more, about 40% or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more, or about 100% or morerelative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by no morethan about 2.5%, no more than about 5%, or no more than about 7.5%,relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by no morethan about 10%, relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. Insome embodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by nomore than about 20%, no more than about 30%, no more than about 40%, nomore than about 50%, no more than about 60%, no more than about 70%, nomore than about 80%, no more than about 90%, or no more than about 100%relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 protein measurement. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 protein measurement is decreased by 2.5%, 5%,7.5%, 19%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or by a rangedefined by any of the two aforementioned percentages.

In some embodiments, the measurement is an ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement. Insome embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement comprises an ANGPTL7 mRNAlevel. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA level is indicated as amass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNA per sample weight. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA level is indicated as a mass or percentageof ANGPTL7 mRNA per sample volume. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNAlevel is indicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNA per totalmRNA within the sample. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA level isindicated as a mass or percentage of ANGPTL7 mRNA per total nucleicacids within the sample. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA level isindicated relative to another mRNA level, such as an mRNA level of ahousekeeping gene, within the sample. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7mRNA measurement is obtained by an assay such as a PCR assay. In someembodiments, the PCR comprises qPCR. In some embodiments, the PCRcomprises reverse transcription of the ANGPTL7 mRNA.

In some embodiments, the composition reduces the ANGPTL7 mRNAmeasurement relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement. In someembodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement is obtained in a second sampleobtained from the subject after administering the composition to thesubject. In some embodiments, the composition reduces ANGPTL7 mRNAlevels relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA levels. In someembodiments, the reduced ANGPTL7 mRNA levels are measured in a secondsample obtained from the subject after administering the composition tothe subject. In some embodiments, the second sample is an ocular sample.

In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement is reduced by about2.5% or more, about 5% or more, or about 7.5% or more, relative to thebaseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNAmeasurement is decreased by about 10% or more, relative to the baselineANGPTL7 mRNA measurement. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNAmeasurement is decreased by about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about40% or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more,about 80% or more, about 90% or more, or about 100% or more relative tothe baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7mRNA measurement is decreased by no more than about 2.5%, no more thanabout 5%, or no more than about 7.5%, relative to the baseline ANGPTL7mRNA measurement. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement isdecreased by no more than about 10%, relative to the baseline ANGPTL7mRNA measurement. In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement isdecreased by no more than about 20%, no more than about 30%, no morethan about 40%, no more than about 50%, no more than about 60%, no morethan about 70%, no more than about 80%, no more than about 90%, or nomore than about 100% relative to the baseline ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement.In some embodiments, the ANGPTL7 mRNA measurement is decreased by 2.5%,5%, 7.5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or by arange defined by any of the two aforementioned percentages.

Methods of Inhibiting or Modulating Expression of the Target Gene

Embodiments also relate to methods for inhibiting the expression of atarget gene. The method comprises the step of administering theantisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agents in any of the precedingembodiments, in an amount sufficient to inhibit expression of the targetgene. In some embodiments, the target gene is ANGPTL7. Another aspectrelates to a method of modulating the expression of a target gene in acell, comprising providing to said cell an antisense oligonucleotide ordsRNA agent. In some embodiments, the target gene is ANGPTL7. In someembodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent describedherein is modified.

The present disclosure provides vitro and in vivo methods for treatmentof a disease or disorder in a mammal by downregulating or silencing thetranscription and/or translation of a target gene or gene transcript ofinterest. In some embodiments, the method comprises introducing anantisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent that silences expression (e.g.,mRNA and/or protein levels) of a target sequence into a cell bycontacting the cell with a modified antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAagent described herein. In some embodiments, the method comprises invivo delivery of an antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent thatsilences expression of a target sequence by administering to a mammal amodified antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA described herein.Administration of the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA can be by anyroute known in the art, such as, e.g., oral, intranasal, inhalation,intravenous, intraperitoneal, intramuscular, intra-articular,intralesional, intratracheal, endotracheal, subcutaneous, orintradermal. In some cases, delivery is by respiratory tractadministration. In some embodiments, the target sequence is ANGPTL7.

In certain embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agentcomprises a carrier system, e.g., to deliver the antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agent into a cell of a mammal. Non-limitingexamples of carrier systems include nucleic acid-lipid particles,liposomes, micelles, virosomes, nucleic acid complexes, and mixturesthereof. In certain instances, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAmolecule is complexed with a lipid such as a cationic lipid to form alipoplex. In certain instances, the antisense oligonucleotide or dsRNAagent is complexed with a polymer such as a cationic polymer (e.g.,polyethylenimine (PEI)) to form a polyplex. The antisenseoligonucleotide or dsRNA agent may also be complexed with cyclodextrinor a polymer thereof. In some embodiments, the antisense oligonucleotideor dsRNA agent is encapsulated in a nucleic acid-lipid particle.

Assessing Up-Regulation or Inhibition of Gene or Transcript Expression

Transfer of an exogenous nucleic acid into a host cell or organism canbe assessed by directly detecting the presence of the nucleic acid inthe cell or organism. For example, the presence of the exogenous nucleicacid can be detected by Southern blot or by a polymerase chain reaction(PCR) technique using primers that specifically amplify nucleotidesequences associated with the nucleic acid. Expression of the exogenousnucleic acids can also be measured using conventional methods includinggene expression analysis. For instance, mRNA produced from an exogenousnucleic acid can be detected and quantified using a Northern blot andreverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR).

Expression of RNA from the exogenous nucleic acid can also be detectedby measuring an enzymatic activity or a reporter protein activity. Forexample, antisense or dsRNA modulatory activity can be measuredindirectly as a decrease or increase in target nucleic acid expressionas an indication that the exogenous nucleic acid is producing theeffector RNA. Based on sequence conservation, primers can be designedand used to amplify coding regions of the target genes. Initially, themost highly expressed coding region from each gene can be used to builda model control gene, although any coding or non-coding region can beused. Each control gene is assembled by inserting each coding regionbetween a reporter coding region and its poly(A) signal. These plasmidswould produce an mRNA with a reporter gene in the upstream portion ofthe gene and a potential RNAi target in the 3′ non-coding region. Theeffectiveness of individual antisense oligonucleotides or dsRNA would beassayed by modulation of the reporter gene. Reporter genes includeacetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS), alkaline phosphatase (AP), betagalactosidase (LacZ), beta glucoronidase (GUS), chloramphenicolacetyltransferase (CAT), green fluorescent protein (GFP), redfluorescent protein (RFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), cyanfluorescent protein (CFP), horseradish peroxidase (HRP), luciferase(Lac), nopaline synthase (NOS), octopine synthase (OCS), and derivativesthereof. Multiple selectable markers are available that conferresistance to ampicillin, bleomycin, chloramphenicol, gentamycin,hygromycin, kanamycin, lincomycin, methotrexate, phosphinothricin,puromycin, and tetracycline. Methods to determine modulation of areporter gene are well known in the art, and include, but are notlimited to, fluorometric methods (e.g. fluorescence spectroscopy,Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), fluorescence microscopy),antibiotic resistance determination.

ANGPTL7 protein and mRNA expression can be assayed using for example,immunoassays such as the ELISA to measure protein levels.

In some embodiments, ANGPTL7 expression (e.g., mRNA or protein) in asample (e.g., cells or tissues in vivo or in vitro) treated using anantisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA agent is evaluated by comparison withANGPTL7 expression in a control sample. For example, expression of theprotein or nucleic acid can be compared using a mock-treated oruntreated sample. In some cases, comparison with a sample treated with acontrol antisense oligonucleotide (e.g., one having an altered ordifferent sequence) can be made depending on the information desired. Insome embodiments, a difference in the expression of the ANGPTL7 proteinor nucleic acid in a treated vs. an untreated sample can be comparedwith the difference in expression of a different nucleic acid (includingany standard deemed appropriate by the researcher, e.g., a housekeepinggene) in a treated sample vs. an untreated sample.

Observed differences can be expressed as desired, e.g., in the form of aratio or fraction, for use in a comparison with control. In embodiments,the level of ANGPTL7 mRNA or protein, in a sample treated with anantisense oligonucleotide or dsRNA, is increased or decreased by about1.25-fold to about 10-fold or more relative to an untreated sample or asample treated with a control nucleic acid. In embodiments, the level ofANGPTL7 mRNA or protein is increased or decreased by at least about1.25-fold, at least about 1.3-fold, at least about 1.4-fold, at leastabout 1.5-fold, at least about 1.6-fold, at least about 1.7-fold, atleast about 1.8-fold, at least about 2- fold, at least about 2.5-fold,at least about 3-fold, at least about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold,at least about 4.5-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 5.5-fold,at least about 6-fold, at least about 6.5-fold, at least about 7-fold,at least about 7.5-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 8.5-fold,at least about 9-fold, at least about 9.5-fold, or at least about 10-fold or more.

Kits, Research Reagents, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics

The compounds disclosed herein can be utilized for diagnostics,therapeutics, and prophylaxis, and as research reagents and componentsof kits. Furthermore, antisense oligonucleotides or dsRNA, which inhibitgene expression may be used to elucidate the function of particulargenes or to distinguish between functions of various members of abiological pathway.

For use in kits and diagnostics and in various biological systems, thecompounds disclosed herein, either alone or in combination with othercompounds or therapeutics, may be useful as tools in differential and/orcombinatorial analyses to elucidate expression patterns of a portion orthe entire complement of genes expressed within cells and tissues.

In some embodiments, the term “biological system” or “system” is anyorganism, cell, cell culture or tissue that expresses, or is madecompetent to express products of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)genes. These include, but are not limited to, humans, transgenicanimals, cells, cell cultures, tissues, xenografts, transplants andcombinations thereof.

As one non limiting example, expression patterns within cells or tissuestreated with one or more antisense compounds or dsRNAs are compared tocontrol cells or tissues not treated with antisense compounds or dsRNAsand the patterns produced are analyzed for differential levels of geneexpression as they pertain, for example, to disease association,signaling pathway, cellular localization, expression level, size,structure or function of the genes examined These analyses can beperformed on stimulated or unstimulated cells and in the presence orabsence of other compounds that affect expression patterns.

Examples of methods of gene expression analysis include DNA arrays ormicroarrays, SAGE (serial analysis of gene expression), READS(restriction enzyme amplification of digested cDNAs), TOGA (total geneexpression analysis), protein arrays and proteomics, expressed sequencetag (EST) sequencing, subtractive RNA fingerprinting (SuRF), subtractivecloning, differential display (DD), comparative genomic hybridization,FISH (fluorescent in situ hybridization) techniques and massspectrometry methods.

In some embodiments, the compounds disclosed herein are useful forresearch and diagnostics, because these compounds hybridize to nucleicacids encoding angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7). For example,oligonucleotides that hybridize with such efficiency and under suchconditions as disclosed herein as to be effective ANGPTL7 modulators areeffective primers or probes under conditions favoring gene amplificationor detection, respectively. These primers and probes are useful inmethods requiring the specific detection of nucleic acid moleculesencoding ANGPTL7 and in the amplification of said nucleic acid moleculesfor detection or for use in further studies of ANGPTL7. Hybridization ofthe antisense oligonucleotides, particularly the primers and probes,with a nucleic acid encoding ANGPTL7 can be detected, e.g., byconjugation of an enzyme to the oligonucleotide, radiolabeling of theoligonucleotide, or any other suitable detection means. Kits using suchdetection means for detecting the level of ANGPTL7 in a sample may alsobe prepared.

The specificity and sensitivity of antisense and sRNA are also harnessedfor therapeutic uses. For therapeutics, an animal, e.g., a human,suspected of having a disease or disorder which can be treated bymodulating the expression of ANGPTL7 polynucleotides is treated byadministering oligonucleotide compounds disclosed herein. For example,in one non-limiting embodiment, the methods comprise the step ofadministering to the animal in need of treatment, a therapeuticallyeffective amount of ANGPTL7 modulator. The ANGPTL7 modulators disclosedherein effectively modulate the activity of the ANGPTL7 or modulate theexpression of the ANGPTL7 protein. In some embodiments, the activity orexpression of ANGPTL7 in an animal is inhibited or modulated by about10% as compared to a control. The control may be an oligonucleotide thatdoes not specifically hybridize to ANGPTL7. In some cases, the activityor expression of ANGPTL7 in an animal is inhibited or modulated by about30%. In some cases, the activity or expression of ANGPTL7 in an animalis inhibited or modulated by 50% or more. Thus, the oligomeric compoundsmay modulate expression of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) mRNA by atleast 10%, by at least 50%, by at least 25%, by at least 30%, by atleast 40%, by at least 50%, by at least 60%, by at least 70%, by atleast 75%, by at least 80%, by at least 85%, by at least 90%, by atleast 95%, by at least 98%, by at least 99%, or by 100% as compared to acontrol. The reduction of or modulation in the expression ofangiopoietin like 7, (ANGPTL7) may be measured in serum, blood, adiposetissue, liver or any other body fluid, tissue or organ of the animal Insome cases, the cells contained within said fluids, tissues or organsbeing analyzed contain a nucleic acid molecule encoding ANGPTL7 peptidesand or the ANGPTL7 protein itself.

Drug Discovery

The compounds disclosed herein can also be applied in the areas of drugdiscovery and target validation. The compounds and target segmentsidentified herein may be used in drug discovery efforts to elucidaterelationships that exist between angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotides and a disease state, phenotype, or condition. Thesemethods include detecting or modulating ANGPTL7 polynucleotidescomprising contacting a sample, tissue, cell, or organism with thecompounds disclosed herein, measuring the nucleic acid or protein levelof ANGPTL7 polynucleotides and/or a related phenotypic or chemicalendpoint at some time after treatment, and optionally comparing themeasured value to a non-treated sample or sample treated with a furthercompound disclosed herein. These methods can also be performed inparallel or in combination with other experiments to determine thefunction of unknown genes for the process of target validation or todetermine the validity of a particular gene product as a target fortreatment or prevention of a particular disease, condition, orphenotype.

This disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples, whichshould not be construed as further limiting. The contents of allreferences, pending patent applications and published patents, citedthroughout this application are hereby expressly incorporated byreference.

Embodiments

Some embodiments include one or more of the following:

1. An RNA interference (RNAi) agent capable of inhibiting or modulatingthe expression of angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7), wherein the RNAi agentcomprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and anantisense strand, each strand having 14 to 30 nucleotides.

2. The RNAi agent of embodiment 1, wherein the dsRNA has a length of17-30 nucleotide pairs.

3. The RNAi agent of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the sensestrand and antisense strand each have 17-30 nucleotides.

4. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-3, wherein the sense strandcomprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

5. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to the reverse complement of the sense strand.

6. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

7. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-3, wherein the sequence of thesense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11089 and the sequence of theantisense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11090.

8. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-7, comprising one or morenucleotide modifications selected from the group consisting of LNA, HNA,CeNA, 2′- methoxyethyl, 2′-0-alkyl, 2′-0-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-fluoro,and 2′-deoxy.

9. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-8, wherein the nucleotides aremodified with either 2′-OCH₃ or 2′-F.

10. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-9, further comprising atleast one ligand. 11. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-10,comprising one or more nucleotide modifications selected from the groupconsisting of 2′-0-methyl nucleotide, 2′-deoxyfluoro nucleotide,2′-O-N-methylacetamido (2′-0-NMA) nucleotide, a 2′-0-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-0-DMAEOE) nucleotide, 2′-0-aminopropyl(2′-0-AP) nucleotide, and 2′-ara-F.

12. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-11, further comprising atleast one phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkage.

13. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-12, wherein the nucleotide atthe 1 position of the 5′-end of the antisense strand of the dsRNA isselected from the group consisting of A, dA, dU, U, and dT.

14. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 1-13, wherein the base pair atthe 1 position of the 5′-end of the dsRNA is an AU base pair.

15. An RNA interference (RNAi) agent capable of inhibiting or modulatingthe expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the RNAi agent comprises adouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and an antisensestrand, each of the strands having 14 to 30 nucleotides, wherein thesense strand contains at least two motifs of three identicalmodifications on three consecutive nucleotides, a first of said sensestrand motifs occurring at a cleavage site in the sense strand and asecond of said sense strand motifs occurring at a different region ofthe sense strand that is separated from the first sense strand motif byat least one nucleotide; and wherein the antisense strand contains atleast two motifs of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides, a first of said antisense strand motifs occurring at ornear the cleavage site in the antisense strand and a second of saidantisense strand motifs occurring at a different region of the antisensestrand that is separated from the first antisense strand motif by atleast one nucleotide; wherein the modification in the first antisensestrand motif is different than the modification in the second antisensestrand motif 16. The RNAi agent of embodiment 15, wherein at least oneof the nucleotides occurring in the first sense strand motif forms abase pair with one of the nucleotides in the first antisense strandmotif 17. The RNAi agent of embodiment 15 or embodiment 16, wherein thedsRNA has 17-30 nucleotide base pairs.

18. The RNAi agent of embodiment 17, wherein the dsRNA has 17-19nucleotide base pairs. 19. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 15-18,wherein each strand has 17-23 nucleotides.

20. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 15-19, wherein themodifications on the nucleotides of the sense strand and/or antisensestrand are selected from the group consisting of LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl, 2′-0-alkyl, 2′-0-allyl, 2′-C- allyl, 2′-fluoro, 2′-deoxy,and combinations thereof.

21. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 15-20, wherein themodifications on the nucleotides of the sense strand and/or antisensestrand are 2′-OCH3 or 2′-F.

22. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 15-21, further comprising aligand attached to the 3′ end of the sense strand.

23. An RNA interference (RNAi) agent capable of inhibiting or modulatingthe expression of ANGPTL7, wherein the RNAi agent comprises adouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA) comprising a sense strand and an antisensestrand, each of the strands having 14 to 30 nucleotides, wherein thesense strand contains at least one motif of three 2′-F modifications onthree consecutive nucleotides, one of said motifs occurring at or nearthe cleavage site in the sense strand; and wherein the antisense strandcontains at least one motif of three 2′-0-methyl modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides, one of said motifs occurring at or near thecleavage site in the antisense strand.

24. The RNAi agent of embodiment 23, wherein the sense strand comprisesa sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

25. The RNAi agent of embodiment 23 or embodiment 24, wherein theantisense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%,or 100% identical to the reverse complement of the sense strand.

26. The RNAi agent of any of embodiments 23-25, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

27. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expression of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contacting saidcells or tissues with at least one antisense oligonucleotide 5 to 30nucleotides in length, wherein said at least one antisenseoligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to a reversecomplement of a polynucleotide comprising 5 to 30 consecutivenucleotides within nucleotides 1 to 2224 of SEQ ID NO: 11085; therebymodulating a function of and/or the expression of the angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, in vivo or invitro.

28. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expression of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contacting saidcells or tissues with at least one antisense oligonucleotide 5 to 30nucleotides in length, wherein said antisense oligonucleotide has atleast 50% sequence identity to an antisense oligonucleotide to theangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby modulating afunction of and/or the expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro.

29. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expression of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contacting saidcells or tissues with at least one antisense oligonucleotide thattargets a region of a natural antisense oligonucleotide of theangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby modulating afunction of and/or the expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, in vivo or in vitro.

30. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expression of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in patient cells ortissues, in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contacting saidcells or tissues with at least one antisense oligonucleotide 5 to 30nucleotides in length; thereby modulating a function of and/or theexpression of the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide in patient cells or tissues, invivo or in vitro.

31. The method of any one of embodiments 27-29, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NO: 11087.

32. The method of embodiment 30, wherein the at least one antisenseoligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:4413-11084.

33. The method of any one of embodiments 27-29, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%,90%, 95% identical to SEQ ID SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

34. The method of any of embodiments 27-33, wherein a function of and/orthe expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) is increased in vivoor in vitro with respect to a control oligonucleotide that does nottarget or specifically hybridize to ANGPTL7.

35. The method of any of embodiments 27-33, wherein a function of and/orthe expression of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) is decreased in vivoor in vitro with respect to a control oligonucleotide that does nottarget or specifically hybridize to ANGPTL7.

36. The method of any of embodiments 27-35, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide targets a natural antisense sequence of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide.

37. The method of any of embodiments 27-36, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide targets a nucleic acid sequence comprisingcoding and/or non-coding nucleic acid sequences of an angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide.

38. The method of any of embodiments 27-37, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide targets overlapping and/or non- overlappingsequences of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide.

39. The method of any of embodiments 27-38, wherein the at least oneantisense oligonucleotide comprises one or more modifications.

40. The method of embodiment 39, wherein the one or more modificationsis selected from: at least one modified sugar moiety, at least onemodified internucleoside linkage, at least one modified nucleotide, andcombinations thereof. 41. The method of embodiment 39, wherein the oneor more modifications comprise at least one modified sugar moietyselected from: a 2′-0-methoxyethyl modified sugar moiety, a 2′-methoxymodified sugar moiety, a 2′-0-alkyl modified sugar moiety, a bicyclicsugar moiety, and combinations thereof.

42. The method of embodiment 39, wherein the one or more modificationscomprise at least one modified internucleoside linkage selected from: aphosphorothioate, 2′- Omethoxyethyl (MOE), 2′-fluoro, alkylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, carboxymethyl ester, andcombinations thereof 43. The method of embodiment 39, wherein the one ormore modifications comprise at least one modified nucleotide selectedfrom: a peptide nucleic acid (PNA), a locked nucleic acid (LNA), anarabin-nucleic acid (FANA), an analogue, a derivative, and combinationsthereof. 44. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expressionof an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) gene in mammalian cells or tissues,in vivo or in vitro, the method comprising: contacting said cells ortissues with at least one short interfering RNA (siRNA) oligonucleotide5 to 30 nucleotides in length, said at least one siRNA oligonucleotidebeing specific for an antisense polynucleotide of an angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, wherein said at least one siRNAoligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to a complementarysequence of at least about five consecutive nucleic acids of theantisense and/or sense nucleic acid molecule of the angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby modulating a function of and or theexpression of angiopoietin like 7, (ANGPTL7) in mammalian cells ortissues in vivo or in vitro.

45. The method of embodiment 44, wherein said oligonucleotide has atleast 80% sequence identity to a sequence of at least about fiveconsecutive nucleic acids that is complementary to the antisense and/orsense nucleic acid molecule of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide.

46. The method of embodiment 44 or embodiment 45, wherein the at leastone siRNA oligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:1-4412.

47. The method of embodiment 44 or embodiment 45, wherein the at leastone siRNA oligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%,90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:1-4412.

48. A method of modulating a function of and/or the expression ofangiopoietin like 7, (ANGPTL7) in mammalian cells or tissues, in vivo orin vitro, the method comprising: contacting said cells or tissues withat least one antisense oligonucleotide of about 5 to 30 nucleotides inlength, the antisense oligonucleotide specific for noncoding and/orcoding sequences of a sense and/or natural antisense strand of anangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, wherein said at least oneantisense oligonucleotide has at least 50% sequence identity to at leastone nucleic acid sequence set forth as 1 to 2224 of SEQ ID NO: 11085 orits complement; thereby modulating the function and/or expression of theangiopoietin like 7 (AGNPTL7) in mammalian cells or tissues, in vivo orin vitro.

49. The method of embodiment 48, wherein the at least one antisenseoligonucleotide comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:4413-11084.

50. The method of embodiment 48, wherein the at least one antisenseoligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%identical to SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

51. A synthetic, modified oligonucleotide comprising at least onemodification wherein the at least one modification is selected from: atleast one modified sugar moiety; at least one modified intenucleotidelinkage; at least one modified nucleotide, and combinations thereof;wherein said oligonucleotide is an antisense compound which hybridizesto and modulates the function and/or expression of an angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide in vivo or in vitro as compared to a controloligonucleotide that does not specifically hybridize to the ANGPTL7polynucleotide.

52. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the at least onemodification comprises an internucleotide linkage selected from thegroup consisting of: phosphorothioate, alkylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, carboxymethyl ester, andcombinations thereof. 53. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 52, whereinsaid oligonucleotide comprises at least one phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkage.

54. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 52, wherein said oligonucleotidecomprises a backbone of phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages.

55. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 52, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises at least one modified nucleotide, said modified nucleotideselected from: a peptide nucleic acid, a locked nucleic acid (LNA), andan analogue, derivative, and a combination thereof. 56. Theoligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotide comprisesa plurality of modifications, wherein said modifications comprisemodified nucleotides selected from: phosphorothioate, alkylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, carboxymethyl ester, and acombination thereof.

57. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a plurality of modifications, wherein said modificationscomprise modified nucleotides selected from: peptide nucleic acids,locked nucleic acids (LNA), and analogues, derivatives, and acombination thereof

58. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises at least one modified sugar moiety selected from: a2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar moiety, a 2′-methoxy modified sugarmoiety, a 2-O-alkyl modified sugar moiety, a bicyclic sugar moiety, anda combination thereof.

59. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a plurality of modifications, wherein said modificationscomprise modified sugar moieties selected from: a 2′-0-methoxyethylmodified sugar moiety, a 2-methoxy modified sugar moiety, a 2′-0-alkylmodified sugar moiety, a bicyclic sugar moiety, and a combinationthereof.

60. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotide isof at least about 5 to 30 nucleotides in length and hybridizes to anantisense and/or sense strand of an angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide, wherein said oligonucleotide has at least about 20%sequence identity to a complementary sequence of at least about fiveconsecutive nucleic acids of the antisense and/or sense coding and/ornoncoding nucleic acid sequences of the angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide.

61. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotidehas at least about 80% sequence identity to a complementary sequence ofat least about five consecutive nucleic acids of the antisense and orsense coding and/or noncoding nucleic acid sequence of the angiopoietinlike 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide.

62. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein said oligonucleotidehybridizes to and modulates expression and/or function of at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide, in vivo or in vitro, ascompared to the control oligonucleotide.

63. The oligonucleotide of embodiment 51, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises the sequence set forth as SEQ ID NO: 11087.

64. The oligonucleotide of any one of embodiments 51-63, wherein the atleast one antisense oligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

65. The oligonucleotide of any one of embodiments 51-63, wherein the atleast one antisense oligonucleotide comprises a sequence at least about80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% identical to SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

66. A composition comprising one or more oligonucleotides specific forone or more angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotides, said one ormore oligonucleotides comprising an antisense sequence, complementarysequence, allele, homolog, isoform, variant, derivative, mutant, orfragment of the ANGPTL7 polynucleotide, or a combination thereof.

67. The composition of embodiment 66 wherein the one or moreoligonucleotides have at least about 40% sequence identity as comparedto the nucleotide sequence set forth as SEQ ID NO: 11087.

68. The composition of embodiment 66 or embodiment 67, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises the nucleotide sequence set forth as SEQ IDNO: 11087.

69. The composition of embodiment 66, wherein the one or moreoligonucleotides comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

70. The composition of embodiment 66, wherein the one or moreoligonucleotides comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%,or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

71. The composition of any of embodiments 66-70, wherein the one or moreoligonucleotides comprises one or more modifications or substitutions.

72. The composition of embodiment 71, wherein the one or moremodifications are selected from: phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate,peptide nucleic acid, locked nucleic acid (LNA) molecules, andcombinations thereof. 73. A method of preventing or treating a diseaseassociated with at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide and/or at least one encoded product thereof, the methodcomprising: administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeuticallyeffective dose of at least one antisense oligonucleotide that binds to anatural antisense sequence of said at least one angiopoietin like 7(ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and modulates expression of said at least oneangiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide; thereby preventing ortreating the disease associated with the at least one angiopoietin like7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and or at least one encoded product thereof.

74. A method of preventing or treating a disease associated with atleast one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and/or at leastone encoded product thereof, the method comprising: administering to asubject in need thereof a therapeutically effective dose of at least oneantisense oligonucleotide that binds to a natural sense sequence of saidat least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide and modulatesexpression of said at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide; thereby preventing or treating the disease associatedwith the at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) polynucleotide andor at least one encoded product thereof.

75. The method of embodiment 73 or embodiment 74, wherein a diseaseassociated with the at least one angiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7)polynucleotide is selected from: a disease or disorder associated withabnormal function and/or expression of ANGPTL7, a disease or disorderassociated with optic nerve damage, a disease or disorder associatedwith intraocular pressure, a degenerative retinal disease or disorder,an inflammatory eye disease or disorder, an allergic eye disease ordisorder, a disease or disorder associated with degeneration orinflammation of the joints, a disease or disorder associated withabnormal lipid metabolism, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, strokeand brain ischemia.

76. The method of embodiment 75, wherein the disease or disorderassociated with optic nerve damage comprises primary open-angleglaucoma, primary angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma,pigmentary glaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenitalglaucoma, inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondaryto intraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma, absolute glaucoma, ocularhypertension, or a combination thereof

77. The method of embodiment 75, wherein the disease or disorderassociated with degeneration or inflammation of the joints comprisesosteoarthritis, osteoarthrosis or a combination thereof.

78. The method of embodiment 75, wherein the cancer is selected fromlung cancer, epidermoid carcinoma, breast cancer, or a combinationthereof.

79. A method of identifying and selecting at least one oligonucleotidefor in vivo administration comprising: identifying at least oneoligonucleotide comprising at least five consecutive nucleotides whichare complementary to ANGPTL7 or to a polynucleotide that is antisense toANGPTL7; measuring the thermal melting point of a hybrid of an antisenseoligonucleotide and the ANGPTL7 or the polynucleotide that is antisenseto the ANGPTL7 under stringent hybridization conditions; and selectingat least one oligonucleotide for in vivo administration based on theinformation obtained.

80. A method of treating a disease or condition mediated by ANGPTL7, themethod comprising administering to a subject in need thereof anoligonucleotide comprising a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%,or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

81. The method of embodiment 80, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

82. The method of embodiment 80 or embodiment 81, wherein the target isANGPTL7.

83. The method of any of embodiments 80-82, wherein the disease orcondition comprises glaucoma (including, primary open-angle glaucoma,primary angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, pigmentaryglaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenital glaucoma,inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondary tointraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma and absolute glaucoma), ocularhypertension, optic neuropathy or a combination thereof

84. The method of any of embodiments 80-83, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises dsRNA.

85. The method of embodiment 84, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises asequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to asequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

86. The method of any of embodiments 80-83, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to SEQ ID NOS: 4413-11084.

87. A method of treating one or more disorders of the eye in a subjectin need thereof comprising editing an ANGPTL7 gene in the subjectwherein the one or more disorders of the eye comprises glaucoma orocular hypertension.

88. The method of embodiment 87, wherein the editing of the ANGPTL7 genecomprises administering CRISPR/cas9 to the subject.

89. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 targets theANGPTL7 gene.

90. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 edits theANGPTL7 gene to a loss of function mutation.

91. The method of embodiment 90, wherein the loss of function mutationcomprises a premature stop mutation.

92. The method of embodiment 91, wherein the premature stop mutationoccurs at amino acid position 177 according to the human proteinsequence numbering.

93. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 edits theANGPTL7 gene to a missense mutation.

94. The method of embodiment 93, wherein the missense mutation comprisesa glutamine to histidine mutation.

95. The method of embodiment 94, wherein the glutamine to histidinemutation occurs at amino acid position 175 according to the humanprotein sequence numbering.

96. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 is deliveredsystemically to the subject.

97. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 is deliveredlocally to the subject.

98. The method of embodiment 97, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 is deliveredlocally to the eye of the subject.

99. The method of embodiment 88, wherein the editing of the ANGPTL7 geneis efficacious in treating the one or more disorders of the eye.

100. The method of embodiment 99, wherein the one or more disorders ofthe eye is glaucoma.

101. The method of embodiment 99, wherein the subject has ocularhypertension.

102. The method of embodiment 101, wherein imaging from the subjectocular hypertension demonstrates optic nerve damage.

103. The method of embodiment 87, wherein the subject has received afirst line treatment comprised of topical ocular prostaglandinanalogues, beta-adrenergic blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, andcarbonic anhydrase inhibitors for the one or more disorders of the eye.

104. The method of embodiment 87, wherein the editing of the ANGPTL7gene causes a reduction in or modulation of the production of the geneproduct of ANGPTL7 in the subject.

105. The method of embodiment 87, wherein the editing of the ANGPTL7gene causes a reduction in the subject of intraocular pressure.

106. A composition comprising CRISPR/cas9 that targets ANGPTL7 that isefficacious in treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

107. The composition of embodiment 106, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 editsthe ANGPTL7 gene to a loss of function mutation.

108. The composition of embodiment 107, wherein the loss of functionmutation comprises a premature stop mutation.

109. The composition of embodiment 108, wherein the premature stopmutation occurs at amino acid position 177 according to the humanprotein sequence numbering.

110. The composition of embodiment 106, wherein the CRISPR/cas9 editsthe ANGPTL7 gene to a missense mutation.

111. The composition of embodiment 110, wherein the missense mutationcomprises a glutamine to histidine mutation.

112. The composition of embodiment 111, wherein the glutamine tohistidine mutation occurs at amino acid position 175 according to thehuman protein sequence numbering.

113. A pharmaceutical composition comprising an siRNA moleculecomprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, which targets SEQ IDNO. 11086 and when introduced to an eye of a patient in an effectiveamount reduces intraocular pressure of the eye; and a pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier.

114. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 113, wherein the siRNAmolecule reduces intraocular pressure by at least 5%, at least 10%, atleast 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30% relative to apre-treatment value of intraocular pressure in the eye of the patient.

115. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 113, wherein thepharmaceutical composition is formulated for topical administration tothe eye.

116. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-115,wherein the siRNA has a length of 17-30 nucleotide pairs.

117. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-115,wherein the sense strand and antisense strand each have 17-30nucleotides.

118. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-115,wherein the sense strand and antisense strand each have 21 nucleotides.

119. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-117,wherein the sense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%,90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:1-4412.

120. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-118,wherein the antisense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%,85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to the reverse complement of the sensestrand.

121. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-119,wherein the antisense strand comprises a sequence at least about 80%,85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS:1-4412.

122. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-116,wherein the sequence of the sense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11089 andthe sequence of the antisense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11090.

123. The pharmaceutical composition of any of embodiments 113-121,comprising a modified internucleoside linkage.

124. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 123, wherein themodified internucleoside linkage comprises alkylphosphonate,phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate, phosphorodithioate,alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate, carbonate, phosphatetriester, acetamidate, or carboxymethyl ester, or a combination thereof.125. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 124, wherein themodified internucleoside linkage comprises one or more phosphorothioatelinkages.

126. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 125, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27,28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42phosphorothioate linkages.

127. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 124 or embodiment 125,wherein the sense strand of the siRNA comprises one or morephosphorothioate linkages.

128. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 127, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21phosphorothioate linkages.

129. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 128, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3,4, or 5 phosphorothioate linkages.

130. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 129, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 4phosphorothioate linkages.

131. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 127-130,wherein the sense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage betweenthe first nucleoside and the second nucleoside of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

132. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 127-131,wherein the sense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage betweenthe second nucleoside and the third nucleoside of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

133. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 127-132,wherein the sense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage betweenthe nineteenth nucleoside and the twentieth nucleoside of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

134. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 127-133,wherein the sense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage betweenthe twentieth nucleoside and the twenty-first nucleoside of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

135. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 124-134,wherein the antisense strand of the siRNA comprises one or morephosphorothioate linkages.

136. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 135, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21phosphorothioate linkages.

137. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 136, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 1, 2,3, 4, or 5 phosphorothioate linkages.

138. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 137, wherein the oneor more phosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 4phosphorothioate linkages.

139. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 135-138,wherein the antisense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkagebetween the first nucleoside and the second nucleoside of the antisensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

140. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 135-139,wherein the antisense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkagebetween the second nucleoside and the third nucleoside of the antisensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

141. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 135-140,wherein the antisense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkagebetween the nineteenth nucleoside and the twentieth nucleoside of thesense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

142. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 135-141,wherein the antisense strand comprises a phosphorothioate linkagebetween the twentieth nucleoside and the twenty-first nucleoside of thesense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

143. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-142,comprising a modified nucleoside.

144. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 143, wherein themodified nucleoside comprises a locked nucleic acid (LNA), hexitolnucleic acid (HLA), cyclohexene nucleic acid (CeNA), 2′- methoxyethyl,2′-O-alkyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-fluoro, or 2′-deoxy, or acombination thereof.

145. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 144, wherein themodified nucleoside comprises a of 2′-O-methyl nucleoside,2′-deoxyfluoro nucleoside, 2′-O—N-methylacetamido (2′-O-NMA) nucleoside,a 2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-O-DMAEOE) nucleoside,2′-O-aminopropyl (2′-O—AP) nucleoside, or 2′-ara-F, or a combinationthereof.

146. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 144, wherein themodified nucleoside comprises one or more 2′fluoro modified nucleosides.

147. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 146, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42 2′fluoro modified nucleosides.

148. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 145 or embodiment 146,wherein the sense strand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

149. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 148, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the sense strand is about 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or21 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

150. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 149, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the sense strand is abouteleven 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

151. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 149, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the sense strand is about four2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

152. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 149, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the sense strand is aboutthree 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

153. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-152,wherein the first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

154. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-153,wherein the third nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

155. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-154,wherein the fifth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

156. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-155,wherein the seventh nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

157. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-156,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

158. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-157,wherein the ninth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

159. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-158,wherein the eleventh nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

160. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-159,wherein the thirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

161. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-160,wherein the fifteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

162. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-161,wherein the seventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

163. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-162,wherein the nineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

164. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-163,wherein the fifth, seventh, and ninth nucleosides of the sense strandcomprises the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

165. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-164,comprising the pattern fN-Z1-fN-Z2-fN, wherein fN comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside and Z1 and Z2 are independently a 2′ 0-methylmodified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

166. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 165, wherein thefN-Z1-fN-Z2-fN corresponds to nucleosides five to nine of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

167. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 148-166,wherein the sense strand comprises at least two contiguous 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

168. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 167, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides is two contiguous 2′fluoro modified nucleosides.

169. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 168, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides is three contiguous2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

170. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 145-169,wherein the antisense strand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′fluoro modified nucleosides.

171. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 170, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,or 21 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

172. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 171, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the antisense strand is abouteight 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

173. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 171, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the antisense strand is aboutsix 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

174. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 171, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the antisense strand is aboutfive 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

175. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 171, wherein the oneor more 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides of the antisense strand is aboutfour 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

176. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-175,wherein the second nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

177. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-176,wherein the fourth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

178. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-177,wherein the sixth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

179. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-178,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

180. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-179,wherein the ninth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

181. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-180,wherein the tenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

182. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-181,wherein the fourteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

183. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-182,wherein the sixteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

184. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-183,wherein the eighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

185. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-184,wherein the second and fourteenth nucleosides of the antisense strandcomprises the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

186. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-185,wherein the second, sixth, fourteenth, and sixteenth nucleosides of theantisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

187. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 170-186,comprising the pattern Z3-fN-Z4-fN, wherein fN comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside and Z3 and Z4 are independently a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

188. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 187, wherein theZ3-fN-Z4-fN corresponds to nucleosides thirteen to sixteen of theantisense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

189. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 143-188,wherein the modified nucleoside comprises a 2′ O-alkyl modifiednucleoside.

190. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 189, wherein the2′-O-alkyl modified nucleoside comprises one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

191. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 190, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

192. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 189-191,wherein the sense strand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

193. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 192, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the sense strand is about 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or21 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

194. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 193, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the sense strand is aboutten 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

195. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 193, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the sense strand is aboutseventeen 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

196. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 193, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the sense strand is abouteighteen 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

197. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-196,wherein the first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

198. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-197,wherein the second nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

199. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-198,wherein the third nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

200. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-199,wherein the fourth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

201. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-200,wherein the sixth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

202. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-201,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

203. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-202,wherein the tenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

204. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-203,wherein the eleventh nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

205. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-204,wherein the twelfth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

206. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-205,wherein the thirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

207. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-206,wherein the fourteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

208. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-207,wherein the fifteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

209. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-208,wherein the sixteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

210. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-209,wherein the seventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

211. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-210,wherein the eighteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

212. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-211,wherein the nineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

213. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-212,wherein the twentieth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

214. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-213,wherein the twenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

215. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-214,wherein the second, fourth, sixth, tenth, twelfth, fourteenth, andsixteenth, eighteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first nucleosides of thesense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

216. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-215,comprising the pattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6, wherein mN comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside and Z5 and Z6 are independently a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

217. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 216, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides four to seven of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

218. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 216 or embodiment 217,wherein Z5 is the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

219. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 216 or embodiment 217,wherein Z5 is the 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside.

220. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 216-219,wherein Z6 is the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

221. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 216-219,wherein Z6 is the 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside.

222. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-221,comprising the pattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN, wherein mN comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside and Z5 and Z6 are independently a 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

223. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 222, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides two to six of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

224. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 222, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten to fourteen of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

225. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 222, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides twelve to sixteen of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

226. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 222, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides fourteen to eighteen of thesense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

227. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 222, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN corresponds to nucleosides sixteen to twenty of the sensestrand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

228. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-227,comprising the pattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN, wherein Z7 is a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

229. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 228, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten to sixteen of thesense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

230. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 228, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN corresponds to nucleosides twelve to eighteen ofthe sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

231. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 228, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN corresponds to nucleosides fourteen to twenty ofthe sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

232. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-231,comprising the pattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN, wherein Z8 is a 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

233. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 232, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten to eighteen ofthe sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

234. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 232, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN corresponds to nucleosides twelve to twentyof the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

235. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-234,comprising the pattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN-Z9-mN, wherein Z9 is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

236. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 235, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN-Z9-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten totwenty of the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

237. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 192-236,wherein the sense strand comprises at least two contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

238. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is threecontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

239. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is four contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

240. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is five contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

241. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is six contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

242. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is sevencontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

243. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is eightcontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

244. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is nine contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

245. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is ten contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

246. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is elevencontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

247. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 237, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is twelvecontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

248. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 189-247,wherein the antisense strand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

249. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 248, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the antisense strand isabout 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, or 21 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

250. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 249, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the antisense strand isabout thirteen 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

251. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 249, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the antisense strand isabout fifteen 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

252. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 249, wherein the oneor more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides of the antisense strand isabout seventeen 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

253. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-252,wherein the first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

254. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-253,wherein the third nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

255. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-254,wherein the fourth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

256. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-255,wherein the fifth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

257. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-256,wherein the seventh nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

258. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-257,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

259. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-258,wherein the ninth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

260. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-259,wherein the tenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

261. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-260,wherein the eleventh nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

262. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-261,wherein the twelfth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

263. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-262,wherein the thirteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

264. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-263,wherein the fifteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

265. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-264,wherein the seventeenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

266. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-265,wherein the eighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

267. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-266,wherein the nineteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

268. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-267,wherein the twentieth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

269. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-268,wherein the twenty-first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprisesthe 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

270. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-269,wherein the first, third, fifth, seventh, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth,fifteenth, seventeenth, nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-firstnucleosides of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

271. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 249-270,wherein the antisense strand comprises at least two contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

272. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 271, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is threecontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

273. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 271, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is four contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

274. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 271, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is five contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

275. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 271, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is six contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

276. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 271, wherein the atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is sevencontiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

277. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 248-276,wherein the antisense strand comprises a first sequence comprising atleast two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides and a secondsequence comprising at least two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

278. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises at least three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides, and the second sequence comprises at least three contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

279. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides,and the second sequence comprises three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

280. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides, andthe second sequence comprises five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

281. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises seven contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides,and the second sequence comprises five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

282. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises at least four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

283. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises at least five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

284. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises at least six contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

285. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 277, wherein the firstsequence comprises at least seven contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

286. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 282-285,wherein the second sequence comprises at least four contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

287. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 282-285,wherein the second sequence comprises at least five contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

288. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 282-285,wherein the second sequence comprises at least six contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

289. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 282-285,wherein the second sequence comprises at least seven contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

290. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-289,wherein the sense strand comprises a ribose.

291. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 290, wherein the sensestrand comprises about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 ribose.

292. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 290 or embodiment 291,wherein the first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

293. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-292,wherein the second nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

294. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-293,wherein the third nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

295. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-294,wherein the fourth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

296. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-295,wherein the fifth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

297. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-296,wherein the sixth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

298. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-297,wherein the seventh nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

299. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-298,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

300. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-299,wherein the ninth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

301. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-300,wherein the tenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

302. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-301,wherein the eleventh nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

303. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-302,wherein the twelfth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose,in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

304. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-303,wherein the thirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

305. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-304,wherein the fourteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

306. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-305,wherein the fifteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

307. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-306,wherein the sixteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

308. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-307,wherein the seventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

309. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-308,wherein the eighteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

310. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-309,wherein the nineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

311. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-310,wherein the twentieth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

312. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 290-311,wherein the twenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

313. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-312,wherein the antisense strand comprises a ribose.

314. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 313, wherein theantisense strand comprises about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 ribose.

315. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 313 or embodiment 314,wherein the first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

316. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-315,wherein the second nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

317. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-316,wherein the third nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

318. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-317,wherein the fourth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

319. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-318,wherein the fifth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

320. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-319,wherein the sixth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

321. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-320,wherein the seventh nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

322. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-321,wherein the eighth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

323. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-322,wherein the ninth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

324. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-323,wherein the tenth nucleoside of the sense antisense comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

325. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-324,wherein the eleventh nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

326. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-325,wherein the twelfth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

327. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-326,wherein the thirteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

328. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-327,wherein the fourteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

329. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-328,wherein the fifteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

330. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-329,wherein the sixteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

331. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-330,wherein the seventeenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

332. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-331,wherein the eighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

333. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-332,wherein the nineteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

334. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-333,wherein the twentieth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises theribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

335. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 313-334,wherein the twenty-first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprisesthe ribose, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

336. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-335,further comprising a lipid attached at either 3′ or 5′ terminus.

337. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 336, wherein the lipidcomprises cholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, lithocholoyl,docosanoyl, docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl, oc-tocopherol,or a combination thereof. 338. The pharmaceutical composition ofembodiment 336 or embodiment 337, wherein the lipid comprises a firstlipid on the sense strand and a second lipid on the antisense strand.

339. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 336-338,wherein the lipid is positioned on the sense strand.

340. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 339, wherein the lipidis positioned at the 5′ end of the sense strand.

341. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 339, wherein the lipidis positioned at the 3′ end of the sense strand.

342. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 336-341,wherein the lipid is positioned on the antisense strand.

343. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 342, wherein the lipidis positioned at the 5′ end of the antisense strand.

344. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 342, wherein the lipidis positioned at the 3′ end of the antisense strand.

345. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-344,wherein the sense strand and the antisense strand form a double-strandedRNA duplex.

346. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 345, wherein thedouble-stranded RNA duplex comprises from about 14 to about 30nucleosides.

347. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 346, wherein thedouble-stranded RNA duplex comprises from about 17 to about 30nucleosides.

348. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 347, wherein thedouble-stranded RNA duplex comprises about 21 nucleosides.

349. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 345-348,wherein the double-stranded RNA duplex comprises at least one base pair.

350. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 349, wherein the firstbase pair of the double-stranded RNA duplex is an AU base pair.

351. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 1S: 5′ fN s mN sfN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11381), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

352. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 2S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11382), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

353. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 3S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11383), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

354. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 4S: 5′ fN s mN sfN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN s mN s mN-N-Lipid 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11384), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside,“mN” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, “s”is a phosphorothioate, and N comprises one or more nucleosides.

355. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 354, wherein the oneor more nucleosides is three nucleosides.

356. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 354 or 355, whereineach of the one or more nucleosides independently comprise a ribose ordeoxyribose.

357. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 5S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN-N-Lipid 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11385), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside,“mN” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, “s”is a phosphorothioate, and N comprises one or more nucleosides.

358. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 357, wherein the oneor more nucleosides is three nucleosides.

359. The pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 357 or 358, whereineach of the one or more nucleosides independently comprise a ribose ordeoxyribose.

360. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-359,wherein the antisense strand comprises pattern 1AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11386), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

361. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-359,wherein the antisense strand comprises pattern 2AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11387), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

362. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-359,wherein the antisense strand comprises pattern 3AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-mN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11388), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

363. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-359,wherein the antisense strand comprises pattern 4AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11389), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

364. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 1S and the antisense strandcomprises pattern 1AS.

365. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 2S and the antisense strandcomprises pattern 2AS.

366. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 3S and the antisense strandcomprises pattern 3AS.

367. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of embodiments 113-350,wherein the sense strand comprises pattern 4S and the antisense strandcomprises pattern 4AS.

368. A method of treating an eye disease or disorder comprisingadministering to the eye of a patient in need thereof a shortinterfering nucleic acid molecule (siRNA) that targets a portion of mRNAencoding ANGPTL7, wherein the siRNA comprises a double-stranded nucleicacid region comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, andwherein there is greater than 90% sequence identity or greater than 90%sequence complementarity between said double-stranded nucleic acidregion of siRNA and the portion of mRNA encoding ANGPTL7 that istargeted by the siRNA.

369. The method of embodiment 368, wherein the eye disease or disorderis characterized by increased intraocular pressure.

370. The method of embodiment 368 or embodiment 369, wherein the siRNAis administered to the eye of the patient in an effective amount thatreduces IOP in the eye of the patient.

371. The method of embodiment 370, wherein the siRNA molecule reducesintraocular pressure by at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, atleast 20%, at least 25%, at least 30% relative to a pre-treatment valueof intraocular pressure in the eye of the patient.

372. The method of any of embodiments 368-371, wherein the siRNA isformulated for topical administration to the eye.

373. The method of any of embodiments 368-372, wherein the eye diseaseor disorder comprises glaucoma.

374. The method of embodiment 373, wherein the glaucoma is selected fromthe group consisting of optic nerve damage comprises primary open-angleglaucoma, primary angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma,pigmentary glaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenitalglaucoma, inflammatory glaucoma, phacogenic glaucoma, glaucoma secondaryto intraocular hemorrhage, traumatic glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma,drug-induced glaucoma, toxic glaucoma, and absolute glaucoma.

375. The method of embodiment 374, wherein the eye disease or disorderis selected from the group consisting a disease or disorder associatedwith optic nerve damage, a disease or disorder associated withintraocular pressure, a degenerative retinal disease or disorder, aninflammatory eye disease or disorder, an allergic eye disease ordisorder.

376. The method of any of embodiments 368-375, wherein the siRNA has alength of 17-30 nucleotide pairs.

377. The method of any of embodiments 368-376, wherein the sense strandand antisense strand each have 17-30 nucleotides.

378. The method of any of embodiments 368-377, wherein the sense strandcomprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

379. The method of any of embodiments 368-378, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to the reverse complement of the sense strand.

380. The method of any of embodiments 368-379, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a sequence at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%identical to a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1-4412.

381. The method of any of embodiments 368-380, wherein the sequence ofthe sense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11089 and the sequence of theantisense strand comprises SEQ ID NO: 11090.

382. The method of any of embodiments 368-381, comprising a modifiedinternucleoside linkage.

383. The method of embodiment 382, wherein the modified internucleosidelinkage comprises alkylphosphonate, phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate,phosphorodithioate, alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate,carbonate, phosphate triester, acetamidate, or carboxymethyl ester, or acombination thereof.

384. The method of embodiment 383, wherein the modified internucleosidelinkage comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages.

385. The method of embodiment 384, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42 phosphorothioatelinkages.

386. The method of embodiment 384 or embodiment 385, wherein the sensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages.

387. The method of embodiment 386, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21phosphorothioate linkages.

388. The method of embodiment 387, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5phosphorothioate linkages.

389. The method of embodiment 388, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the sense strand is about 4phosphorothioate linkages.

390. The method of any one of embodiments 382-389, wherein the sensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the first nucleosideand the second nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

391. The method of any one of embodiments 382-390, wherein the sensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the secondnucleoside and the third nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

392. The method of any one of embodiments 382-391, wherein the sensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the nineteenthnucleoside and the twentieth nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

393. The method of any one of embodiments 382-392, wherein the sensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the twentiethnucleoside and the twenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

394. The method of any one of embodiments 384-393, wherein the antisensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages.

395. The method of embodiment 394, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21phosphorothioate linkages.

396. The method of embodiment 395, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4,or 5 phosphorothioate linkages.

397. The method of embodiment 396, wherein the one or morephosphorothioate linkages of the antisense strand is about 4phosphorothioate linkages.

398. The method of any one of embodiments 394-397, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the first nucleosideand the second nucleoside of the antisense strand, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

399. The method of any one of embodiments 394-398, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the secondnucleoside and the third nucleoside of the antisense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

400. The method of any one of embodiments 394-399, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the nineteenthnucleoside and the twentieth nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

401. The method of any one of embodiments 394-400, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a phosphorothioate linkage between the twentiethnucleoside and the twenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

402. The method of any one of embodiments 368-401, comprising a modifiednucleoside.

403. The method of embodiment 402, wherein the modified nucleosidecomprises a locked nucleic acid (LNA), hexitol nucleic acid (HLA),cyclohexene nucleic acid (CeNA), 2′- methoxyethyl, 2′-O-alkyl,2′-O-allyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-fluoro, or 2′-deoxy, or a combinationthereof.

404. The method of embodiment 403, wherein the modified nucleosidecomprises a of 2′-O-methyl nucleoside, 2′-deoxyfluoro nucleoside,2′-O-N-methylacetamido (2′-O-NMA) nucleoside, a2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-O-DMAEOE) nucleoside, 2′-O-aminopropyl(2′-O—AP) nucleoside, or 2′-ara-F, or a combination thereof.

405. The method of embodiment 403, wherein the modified nucleosidecomprises one or more 2′fluoro modified nucleosides.

406. The method of embodiment 405, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31,32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42 2′ fluoro modifiednucleosides.

407. The method of embodiment 405 or embodiment 406, wherein the sensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ fluoro modifiednucleosides.

408. The method of embodiment 407, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

409. The method of embodiment 408, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about eleven 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

410. The method of embodiment 408, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about four 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

411. The method of embodiment 408, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about three 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

412. The method of any one of embodiments 407-411, wherein the firstnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

413. The method of any one of embodiments 407-412, wherein the thirdnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

414. The method of any one of embodiments 407-413, wherein the fifthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

415. The method of any one of embodiments 407-414, wherein the seventhnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

416. The method of any one of embodiments 407-415, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

417. The method of any one of embodiments 407-416, wherein the ninthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

418. The method of any one of embodiments 407-417, wherein the eleventhnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

419. The method of any one of embodiments 407-418, wherein thethirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

420. The method of any one of embodiments 407-419, wherein the fifteenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

421. The method of any one of embodiments 407-420, wherein theseventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

422. The method of any one of embodiments 407-421, wherein thenineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

423. The method of any one of embodiments 407-422, wherein the fifth,seventh, and ninth nucleosides of the sense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

424. The method of any one of embodiments 407-423, comprising thepattern fN-Z1-fN-Z2-fN, wherein fN comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside and Z1 and Z2 are independently a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

425. The method of embodiment 424, wherein the fN-Z1-fN-Z2-fNcorresponds to nucleosides five to nine of the sense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

426. The method of any one of embodiments 407-425, wherein the sensestrand comprises at least two contiguous 2′ fluoro modified nucleosides.

427. The method of embodiment 426, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ fluoro modified nucleosides is two contiguous 2′ fluoro modifiednucleosides.

428. The method of embodiment 426, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ fluoro modified nucleosides is three contiguous 2′ fluoro modifiednucleosides.

429. The method of any one of embodiments 405-428, wherein the antisensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ fluoro modifiednucleosides.

430. The method of embodiment 429, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

431. The method of embodiment 430, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about eight 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

432. The method of embodiment 430, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about six 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

433. The method of embodiment 430, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about five 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

434. The method of embodiment 430, wherein the one or more 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about four 2′ fluoromodified nucleosides.

435. The method of any one of embodiments 429-434, wherein the secondnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

436. The method of any one of embodiments 429-435, wherein the fourthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

437. The method of any one of embodiments 429-436, wherein the sixthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

438. The method of any one of embodiments 429-437, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

439. The method of any one of embodiments 429-438, wherein the ninthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

440. The method of any one of embodiments 429-439, wherein the tenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

441. The method of any one of embodiments 429-440, wherein thefourteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

442. The method of any one of embodiments 429-441, wherein the sixteenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

443. The method of any one of embodiments 429-442, wherein theeighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ fluoromodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

444. The method of any one of embodiments 429-443, wherein the secondand fourteenth nucleosides of the antisense strand comprises the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

445. The method of any one of embodiments 429-444, wherein the second,sixth, fourteenth, and sixteenth nucleosides of the antisense strandcomprises the 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

446. The method of any one of embodiments 429-445, comprising thepattern Z3-fN-Z4-fN, wherein fN comprises the 2′ fluoro modifiednucleoside and Z3 and Z4 are independently a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

447. The method of embodiment 446, wherein the Z3-fN-Z4-fN correspondsto nucleosides thirteen to sixteen of the antisense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

448. The method of any one of embodiments 404-447, wherein the modifiednucleoside comprises a 2′ O-alkyl modified nucleoside.

449. The method of embodiment 448, wherein the 2′ O-alkyl modifiednucleoside comprises one or more 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

450. The method of embodiment 449, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31,32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, or 42 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

451. The method of any one of embodiments 448-450, wherein the sensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

452. The method of embodiment 451, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

453. The method of embodiment 452, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about ten 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

454. The method of embodiment 452, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about seventeen 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

455. The method of embodiment 452, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the sense strand is about eighteen 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

456. The method of any one of embodiments 449-455, wherein the firstnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

457. The method of any one of embodiments 449-456, wherein the secondnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

458. The method of any one of embodiments 449-457, wherein the thirdnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

459. The method of any one of embodiments 449-458, wherein the fourthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

460. The method of any one of embodiments 449-459, wherein the sixthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

461. The method of any one of embodiments 449-460, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

462. The method of any one of embodiments 449-461, wherein the tenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

463. The method of any one of embodiments 449-462, wherein the eleventhnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

464. The method of any one of embodiments 449-463, wherein the twelfthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

465. The method of any one of embodiments 449-464, wherein thethirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

466. The method of any one of embodiments 449-465, wherein thefourteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

467. The method of any one of embodiments 449-466, wherein the fifteenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

468. The method of any one of embodiments 449-467, wherein the sixteenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

469. The method of any one of embodiments 449-468, wherein theseventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

470. The method of any one of embodiments 449-469, wherein theeighteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

471. The method of any one of embodiments 449-470, wherein thenineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

472. The method of any one of embodiments 449-471, wherein the twentiethnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

473. The method of any one of embodiments 449-472, wherein thetwenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

474. The method of any one of embodiments 449-473, wherein the second,fourth, sixth, tenth, twelfth, fourteenth, and sixteenth, eighteenth,twentieth, and twenty-first nucleosides of the sense strand comprisesthe 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

475. The method of any one of embodiments 449-474, comprising thepattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6, wherein mN comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside and Z5 and Z6 are independently a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

476. The method of embodiment 475, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides four to seven of the sense strand, in a 5′ to3′ direction.

477. The method of embodiment 475 or embodiment 476, wherein Z5 is the2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

478. The method of embodiment 475 or embodiment 476, wherein Z5 is the2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside.

479. The method of any one of embodiments 475-478, wherein Z6 is the 2′fluoro modified nucleoside.

480. The method of any one of embodiments 475-478, wherein Z6 is the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside.

481. The method of any one of embodiments 449-480, comprising thepattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN, wherein mN comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside and Z5 and Z6 are independently a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

482. The method of embodiment 481, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides two to six of the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

483. The method of embodiment 481, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides ten to fourteen of the sense strand, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

484. The method of embodiment 481, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides twelve to sixteen of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

485. The method of embodiment 481, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides fourteen to eighteen of the sense strand, ina 5′ to 3′ direction.

486. The method of embodiment 481, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mNcorresponds to nucleosides sixteen to twenty of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

487. The method of any one of embodiments 449-486, comprising thepattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN, wherein Z7 is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

488. The method of embodiment 487, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mNcorresponds to nucleosides ten to sixteen of the sense strand, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

489. The method of embodiment 488, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mNcorresponds to nucleosides twelve to eighteen of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

490. The method of embodiment 488, wherein the mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mNcorresponds to nucleosides fourteen to twenty of the sense strand, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

491. The method of any one of embodiments 449-490, comprising thepattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN, wherein Z8 is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

492. The method of embodiment 491, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten to eighteen ofthe sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

493. The method of embodiment 491, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN corresponds to nucleosides twelve to twentyof the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

494. The method of any one of embodiments 449-493, comprising thepattern mN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN-Z9-mN, wherein Z9 is a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside or a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.

495. The method of embodiment 494, wherein themN-Z5-mN-Z6-mN-Z7-mN-Z8-mN-Z9-mN corresponds to nucleosides ten totwenty of the sense strand, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

496. The method of any one of embodiments 449-495, wherein the sensestrand comprises at least two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

497. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is three contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

498. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

499. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

500. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is six contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

501. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is seven contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

502. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is eight contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

503. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is nine contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

504. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is ten contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

505. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is eleven contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

506. The method of embodiment 496, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is twelve contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

507. The method of any one of embodiments 449-506, wherein the antisensestrand of the siRNA comprises one or more 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

508. The method of embodiment 507, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

509. The method of embodiment 508, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about thirteen 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

510. The method of embodiment 508, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about fifteen 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

511. The method of embodiment 508, wherein the one or more 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides of the antisense strand is about seventeen 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides.

512. The method of any one of embodiments 507-511, wherein the firstnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

513. The method of any one of embodiments 507-512, wherein the thirdnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

514. The method of any one of embodiments 507-513, wherein the fourthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

515. The method of any one of embodiments 507-514, wherein the fifthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

516. The method of any one of embodiments 507-515, wherein the seventhnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

517. The method of any one of embodiments 507-516, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

518. The method of any one of embodiments 507-517, wherein the ninthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

519. The method of any one of embodiments 507-518, wherein the tenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

520. The method of any one of embodiments 507-519, wherein the eleventhnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

521. The method of any one of embodiments 507-520, wherein the twelfthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

522. The method of any one of embodiments 507-521, wherein thethirteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

523. The method of any one of embodiments 507-522, wherein the fifteenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

524. The method of any one of embodiments 507-523, wherein theseventeenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

525. The method of any one of embodiments 507-524, wherein theeighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

526. The method of any one of embodiments 507-525, wherein thenineteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

527. The method of any one of embodiments 507-526, wherein the twentiethnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

528. The method of any one of embodiments 507-527, wherein thetwenty-first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the 2′O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′ to 3′ direction.

529. The method of any one of embodiments 507-528, wherein the first,third, fifth, seventh, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fifteenth,seventeenth, nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first nucleosides of theantisense strand comprises the 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

530. The method of any one of embodiments 507-529, wherein the antisensestrand comprises at least two contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

531. The method of embodiment 530, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is three contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

532. The method of embodiment 530, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

533. The method of embodiment 530, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

534. The method of embodiment 530, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is six contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

535. The method of embodiment 530, wherein the at least two contiguous2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides is seven contiguous 2′ O-methylmodified nucleosides.

536. The method of any one of embodiments 507-535, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a first sequence comprising at least two contiguous 2′O-methyl modified nucleosides and a second sequence comprising at leasttwo contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

537. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesat least three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides, and thesecond sequence comprises at least three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

538. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesthree contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides, and the secondsequence comprises three contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

539. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesfour contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides, and the secondsequence comprises five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

540. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesseven contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides, and the secondsequence comprises five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

541. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesat least four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

542. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesat least five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

543. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesat least six contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

544. The method of embodiment 536, wherein the first sequence comprisesat least seven contiguous 2′ O-methyl modified nucleosides.

545. The method of any one of embodiments 541-544, wherein the secondsequence comprises at least four contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

546. The method of any one of embodiments 541-544, wherein the secondsequence comprises at least five contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

547. The method of any one of embodiments 511-544, wherein the secondsequence comprises at least six contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

548. The method of any one of embodiments 511-544, wherein the secondsequence comprises at least seven contiguous 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleosides.

549. The method of any one of embodiments 368-548, wherein the sensestrand comprises a ribose.

550. The method of embodiment 549, wherein the sense strand comprisesabout 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, or 21 ribose.

551. The method of embodiment 549 or embodiment 550, wherein the firstnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

552. The method of any one of embodiments 549-551, wherein the secondnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

553. The method of any one of embodiments 549-552, wherein the thirdnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

554. The method of any one of embodiments 549-553, wherein the fourthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

555. The method of any one of embodiments 549-554, wherein the fifthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

556. The method of any one of embodiments 549-555, wherein the sixthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

557. The method of any one of embodiments 549-556, wherein the seventhnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

558. The method of any one of embodiments 549-557, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

559. The method of any one of embodiments 549-558, wherein the ninthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

560. The method of any one of embodiments 549-559, wherein the tenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

561. The method of any one of embodiments 549-560, wherein the eleventhnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

562. The method of any one of embodiments 549-561, wherein the twelfthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

563. The method of any one of embodiments 549-562, wherein thethirteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

564. The method of any one of embodiments 549-563, wherein thefourteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

565. The method of any one of embodiments 549-564, wherein the fifteenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

566. The method of any one of embodiments 549-565, wherein the sixteenthnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

567. The method of any one of embodiments 549-566, wherein theseventeenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

568. The method of any one of embodiments 549-567, wherein theeighteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

569. The method of any one of embodiments 549-568, wherein thenineteenth nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′to 3′ direction.

570. The method of any one of embodiments 549-569, wherein the twentiethnucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

571. The method of any one of embodiments 549-570, wherein thetwenty-first nucleoside of the sense strand comprises the ribose, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

572. The method of any one of embodiments 368-571, wherein the antisensestrand comprises a ribose.

573. The method of embodiment 572, wherein the antisense strandcomprises about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16,17, 18, 19, 20, or 21 ribose.

574. The method of embodiment 572 or embodiment 573, wherein the firstnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

575. The method of any one of embodiments 572-574, wherein the secondnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

576. The method of any one of embodiments 572-575, wherein the thirdnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

577. The method of any one of embodiments 572-576, wherein the fourthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

578. The method of any one of embodiments 572-577, wherein the fifthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

579. The method of any one of embodiments 572-578, wherein the sixthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

580. The method of any one of embodiments 572-579, wherein the seventhnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

581. The method of any one of embodiments 572-580, wherein the eighthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

582. The method of any one of embodiments 572-581, wherein the ninthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

583. The method of any one of embodiments 572-582, wherein the tenthnucleoside of the sense antisense comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

584. The method of any one of embodiments 572-583, wherein the eleventhnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

585. The method of any one of embodiments 572-584, wherein the twelfthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

586. The method of any one of embodiments 572-585, wherein thethirteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

587. The method of any one of embodiments 572-586, wherein thefourteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

588. The method of any one of embodiments 572-587, wherein the fifteenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

589. The method of any one of embodiments 572-588, wherein the sixteenthnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

590. The method of any one of embodiments 572-589, wherein theseventeenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, ina 5′ to 3′ direction.

591. The method of any one of embodiments 572-590, wherein theeighteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

592. The method of any one of embodiments 572-591, wherein thenineteenth nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a5′ to 3′ direction.

593. The method of any one of embodiments 572-592, wherein the twentiethnucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, in a 5′ to 3′direction.

594. The method of any one of embodiments 572-593, wherein thetwenty-first nucleoside of the antisense strand comprises the ribose, ina 5′ to 3′ direction.

595. The method of any one of embodiments 368-594, further comprising alipid attached at either 3′ or 5′ terminus.

596. The method of embodiment 595, wherein the lipid comprisescholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, lithocholoyl, docosanoyl,docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl, α-tocopherol, or acombination thereof.

597. The method of embodiment 595 or embodiment 596, wherein the lipidcomprises a first lipid on the sense strand and a second lipid on theantisense strand.

598. The method of any one of embodiments 595-597, wherein the lipid ispositioned on the sense strand.

599. The method of embodiment 598, wherein the lipid is positioned atthe 5′ end of the sense strand.

600. The method of embodiment 598, wherein the lipid is positioned atthe 3′ end of the sense strand.

601. The method of any one of embodiments 595-600, wherein the lipid ispositioned on the antisense strand.

602. The method of embodiment 601, wherein the lipid is positioned atthe 5′ end of the antisense strand.

603. The method of embodiment 601, wherein the lipid is positioned atthe 3′ end of the antisense strand.

604. The method of any one of embodiments 368-594, further comprising anarginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) ligand attached at a 3′ terminusand/or a 5′ terminus.

605. The method of any one of embodiments 368-603, further comprising anRGD ligand attached at either a 3′ terminus or a 5′ terminus.

606. The method of embodiment 604 or 605, wherein the RGD ligandcomprises Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-alkynyl),amino benzoic acid-based RGD, or a combination thereof 607. The methodof embodiment 604 or embodiment 605, wherein the RGD ligand is composedof 2, 3 or 4 RGD ligands.

608. The method of any one of embodiments 604-607, wherein the RGD ispositioned on the sense strand.

609. The method of embodiment 608, wherein the RGD is positioned at the5′ end of the sense strand.

610. The method of embodiment 608, wherein the RGD is positioned at the3′ end of the sense strand.

611. The method of any one of embodiments 604-607, wherein the RGD ispositioned on the antisense strand.

612. The method of embodiment 611, wherein the RGD ligand is positionedat the 5′ end of the antisense strand.

613. The method of embodiment 611, wherein the RGD ligand is positionedat the 3′ end of the antisense strand.

614. The method of any one of embodiments 368-613, wherein the sensestrand and the antisense strand form a double-stranded RNA duplex.

615. The method of embodiment 614, wherein the double-stranded RNAduplex comprises from about 14 to about 30 nucleosides.

616. The method of embodiment 614, wherein the double-stranded RNAduplex comprises from about 17 to about 30 nucleosides.

617. The method of embodiment 614, wherein the double-stranded RNAduplex comprises about 21 nucleosides.

618. The method of any one of embodiments 614-617, wherein thedouble-stranded RNA duplex comprises at least one base pair.

619. The method of embodiment 618, wherein the first base pair of thedouble-stranded RNA duplex is an AU base pair.

620. The method of any one of embodiments 368-614, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 1S: 5′ fN s mN sfN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11381), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

621. The method of any one of embodiments 368-614, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 2S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11382), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

622. The method of any one of embodiments 368-614, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 3S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11383), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

623. The method of any one of embodiments 368-614, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 4S: 5′ fN s mN sfN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN s mN s mN-N-Lipid 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11384), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside,“mN” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, “s”is a phosphorothioate, and N comprises one or more nucleosides.

624. The method of embodiment 623, wherein the one or more nucleosidesis three nucleosides.

625. The method of embodiment 623 or 624, wherein each of the one ormore nucleosides independently comprise a ribose or deoxyribose.

626. The method of any one of embodiments 368-619, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 5S: 5′ mN s mN smN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN-N-Lipid 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11385), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside,“mN” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, “s”is a phosphorothioate, and N comprises one or more nucleosides.

627. The method of embodiment 626, wherein the one or more nucleosidesis three nucleosides.

628. The method of embodiment 626 or 627, wherein each of the one ormore nucleosides independently comprise a ribose or deoxyribose.

629. The method of any one of embodiments 368-628, wherein the antisensestrand comprises pattern lAS: 5′ mN s fN smN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11386), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

630. The method of any one of embodiments 368-628, wherein the antisensestrand comprises pattern 2AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11387), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

631. The method of any one of embodiments 368-628, wherein the antisensestrand comprises pattern 3AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-mN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11388), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

632. The method of any one of embodiments 368-628, wherein the antisensestrand comprises pattern 4AS: 5′ mN s fN smN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-mN-fN-mN-fN-mN-mN-mN s mN s mN 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11389), wherein “fN” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “mN” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “-” is a phosphodiester, and “s” is aphosphorothioate.

633. The method of any one of embodiments 368-619, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 1S and the antisense strand comprises pattern 1AS.

634. The method of any one of embodiments 368-619, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 2S and the antisense strand comprises pattern2AS.

635. The method of any one of embodiments 368-619, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 3S and the antisense strand comprises pattern3AS.

636. The method of any one of embodiments 368-619, wherein the sensestrand comprises pattern 4S and the antisense strand comprises pattern4AS.

EXAMPLES

The following non-limiting examples serve to illustrate selectedembodiments. It will be appreciated that variations in proportions andalternatives in elements of the components shown will be apparent tothose skilled in the art and are within the scope of embodimentspresented herein.

Example 1 Association of ANGPTL7 Protein Altering Variants with IOP andGlaucoma

Applicant evaluated approximately 30,000,000 imputed variants in˜350,000 individuals from the UK Biobank cohort for associations withglaucoma and glaucoma-relevant phenotypes, including non-specificglaucoma, primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), primary angle closureglaucoma (PACG), glaucoma surgery, glaucoma medication use, andintraocular pressure (IOP) (see Table 1). Elevated IOP is a primarycausal feature and risk factor for glaucoma.

TABLE 1 Case Definitions and Case and Control Counts for EvaluatedPhenotypes Trait Case Definition Case # Control # Glaucoma Hospitaldiagnosis of glaucoma OR 6896 328209 glaucoma surgery or meds OR self-reported history of glaucoma in a nurse-led interview ICD GlaucomaHospital diagnosis of primary open 836 328209 POAG angle glaucoma ICDGlaucoma Hospital diagnosis of primary angle 571 328209 PACG closedglaucoma Glaucoma Hospital procedure for glaucoma 1229 328209 SurgeryGlaucoma Use of prostaglandin analogs, alpha 2131 328209 Medicationagonists, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and beta blockers used to treatglaucoma IOP intra-ocular pressure measure 70107 NA

Associations were observed between a rare missense variant (rs28991009;minor allele frequency ˜0.0073) within ANGPTL7 and glaucoma and relatedtraits (see Table 2). The major allele of this variant (chrl-11253684-G,hg19) encodes for a glutamine and the minor allele (chr1-11253684-T,hg19) a histidine at amino acid position 175 of the full length ANGPTL7protein (Gln175His; Q175H). Carriers of the minor allele of this varianthad about half the risk of glaucoma as non-carriers (p=4×10{circumflexover ( )}-5; OR=0.61). ICD defined subtypes of POAG (p=0.04; OR=0.0.44)and PACG (p=0.08; OR=0.42) demonstrated similar protection. Odds ofglaucoma medication use (p=0.04; OR=0.66) and glaucoma surgery (p=0.03;OR=0.50) were also reduced, and an association with reduced IOP wasobserved (p=2×10{circumflex over ( )}-13; beta=−0.21).

TABLE 2 Association of ANGPTL7 Variant rs28991009 with Glaucoma andRelated Traits Trait Variant Effect Size P Glaucoma rs28991009   0.61(OR) 4.07E−05 ICD Glaucoma POAG rs28991009   0.44 (OR) 0.04 ICD GlaucomaPACG rs28991009   0.42 (OR) 0.08 Glaucoma Surgery rs28991009   0.50 (OR)0.03 Glaucoma Medication rs28991009   0.66 (OR) 0.04 IOP rs28991009−0.21 (Beta) 1.95E−13

Next, we performed a gene burden test utilizing all protein alteringvariants in ANGPTL7. Gene burden tests are used to aggregate rarevariants in a gene by functional class that are too rare to be testedindividually. Though imputation of array genotypes has improvedsignificantly with the availability of large reference datasetsconsisting of haplotypes observed in whole genome sequencing studies,imputation of very rare variants remains challenging and can beinaccurate. For this reason, we conducted the burden test using alldirectly genotyped protein altering variants in ANGPTL7, resulting ininclusion of the Q175H missense variant (MAF=0.0073; rs28991009), anR140H missense variant (MAF=0.0024; rs28991002), a G136R missensevariant (MAF=0.0005; rs200058074) and an R177Ter stop gain variant(MAF=0.0004; rs143435072). Individuals carrying predicted ANGPTL7protein altering variants had a significantly lower IOP when compared tonon-carriers (p=1.01E-17; beta=−0.20) (Table 3). The burden result wasdriven by the Q175H, R140H and R177Ter variants; the G136R variant wasnot associated with IOP (Table 3).

TABLE 3 Association of ANGPTL7 Protein Altering Variants with IOP RSIDFunction AAF REF ALT BETA (95% CI) P rs28991009 Missense 7.27E−03 G T−0.22 (−0.27, −0.16) 2.72E−14 (Q175H) rs28991002 Missense 2.36E−03 G A−0.17 (−0.27, −0.08) 4.63E−04 (R140H) rs143435072 Stop gain 3.81E−04 C T−0.39 (−0.64, −0.14) 2.00E−03 (R177Ter) rs200058074 Missense 5.06E−04 AG 0.02 (−0.19, 0.24) 0.84 (G136R) Burden NA 1.05E−02 NA NA −0.20 (−0.25, −0.15) 1.01E−17

The protective (i.e. IOP-lowering) associations with Q175H and R140Hwere directionally consistent with the predicted loss of functionvariant R177Ter; in other words, the minor allele of all three variantswas associated with decreased IOP. By inference, these data indicatethat loss of function (LOF) of ANGPTL7 protects against the developmentof ocular hypertension and glaucoma. Accordingly, in some casestherapeutic inhibition or modulation of ANGPTL7 may be an effectivegenetically-informed method of treatment for these diseases.

Example 2 Protective (i.e. IOP-Lowering) Variants in ANGPTL7 Result inLess Secreted ANGPTL7 Protein

Pre-mRNA or protein-coding sequence (CDS) expression constructs encodingfor wild type, Q175H, R140H and R177Ter proteins were generated (FIG.1). The pre-mRNA or CDS of the protein coding transcript(ENST00000376819) of ANGPTL7 was cloned into a pcDNA3.1(+) vector drivenby a CMV promoter. Note that the pre-mRNA constructs contained exons,introns, and 5′ and 3′ UTRs, while the CDS constructs contained onlyexons. The purpose in utilizing pre-mRNA constructs is that they allowfor evaluation of alternatively spliced transcripts. Empty vector and aGFP tagged vector were used as controls. For Q175H (rs28991009)expression constructs, the T allele replaces the G allele at DNAsequence position chr1:11253684 (human genome build 37). This creates aGln175His amino acid substitution in the ANGPTL7 protein. For R140H(rs28991002) expression constructs, the A allele replaces the G alleleat DNA position chr1:11252369 (human genome build 37). For R177Ter(rs143435072) expression constructs, the T allele replaces the C alleleat DNA sequence position chr1:11253688 (human genome build 37). Thiscreates an Arg177Ter premature stop codon.

Transfections of HEK293 cells were optimized using the GFP-tagged andANGPTL7 WT and Q175H pre-mRNA constructs. Briefly, HEK293 cells wereplated at 10,000 cells/well in a 96-well plate in complete growth mediaand grown for 48 hours followed by a media change. Cells were thentransfected with 50 ng or 100 ng of plasmid DNA and 0.15 ul/well or 0.30ul/well of TransIT-2020 or 0.20 ul/well or 0.40 ul/well LipofectamineLTX reagents. Cells were incubated for 60 hours, and then either imagedfor GFP fluorescence (see FIG. 2) or harvested with Cells-to-Ct reagentand qPCR used to assess ANGPTL7 expression (see FIG. 3). The GFP vectortransfection confirmed high transfection efficiency with TransIT-2020reagent and the qPCR assay confirmed that both the wild-type and Q175Hconstructs produce ANGPTL7.

To evaluate, in parallel, the effects of the Q175H, R140H and R177TerIOP-lowering variants on mRNA and protein expression levels, wild-typeand variant constructs were transiently transfected and expressed inHEK293 cells. ANGPTL7 mRNA expression in empty vector transfected HEK293cells was negligible, while expression from the plasmid constructs wasrobust and equivalent between the wild-type and variant (Q175H, R140Hand R177Ter) transfected cells (FIG. 4).

Cell lysates and media from transfected cells were assayed to evaluateintracellular and secreted ANGPTL7 protein by Western blot (FIG. 5). Inempty vector transfected HEK293 cells, ANGPTL7 was not detectable byWestern blot. In cells transfected with the Q175H construct, ANGPTL7 wasmarkedly reduced in the medium and increased in the cell lysate,suggesting a secretion defect. No protein was detected in lysates ormedia from cells transfected with the R177Ter construct, in spite ofmRNA levels that are equivalent to wild type, suggesting degradation atthe protein level rather than nonsense mediated decay. There was noapparent difference between wild type and R140H in either secreted orintracellular protein abundance by Western blot.

Western blot results were validated using a quantitative ELISA assay(FIG. 6). Q175H protein was 6.8-fold more abundant in the cell lysatecompared to wild-type, whereas the wild-type protein was 3.3-fold moreabundant in the media. This results in a heavily skewed ratio of proteinin the media versus lysate when comparing wild-type and Q175H missenseprotein (˜22:1 ratio) (FIG. 7). The R140H protein demonstrated a lowersecretion ratio than wild type, though this difference was modest.Protein was below the ELISA limit of detection in both the media andcell lysate for cells transfected with the R177Ter construct, consistentwith the Western blot results.

Similar experiments were performed using CDS constructs rather thanpre-mRNA constructs, and results were equivalent to those for thepre-mRNA constructs, as demonstrated by Western Blot (FIG. 8).

Therefore, experimental evaluation of ANGPTL7 proteins demonstrates thatgenetic variants in ANGPTL7 that are observed to lower IOP and protectfrom ocular hypertension and glaucoma result in reduced intracellularand/or extracellular ANGPTL7 protein, thereby confirming utility ofinhibiting or modulating ANGPTL7 for treatment of these diseases.

Example 3 Verification of a Predicted Noncoding ANGPTL7 Transcript

ANGPTL7 has two database annotated RNA transcripts, the canonicalprotein coding transcript (ENST00000376819) and a noncoding transcript(ENST00000476934) (FIG. 9). The protein coding transcript is comprisedof five exons encoding for a 346aa protein. The noncoding transcript iscomprised of three noncoding exons, the first of which starts within thethird exon of the protein coding transcript. The noncoding transcript isa less well annotated transcript with weak support in the Ensembldatabase. Of note, the rs28991009 (Q175H) variant is located at thefirst nucleotide position of the noncoding transcript. This suggestspossible involvement of this variant in the generation of the noncodingtranscript and another possible mechanism, in addition to the secretiondefect discovered by the applicant, by which the Q175H missense variantor other variants could result in loss of functional protein.

A number of PCR primers were designed to detect, in a non-quantitativePCR assay, the protein coding and noncoding ANGPTL7 transcripts fromHEK293 cells transfected with the wild type and Q175H variant pre-mRNAconstructs. These pre-mRNA constructs allow for generation ofalternatively spliced transcripts, if such transcripts exist. Briefly,HEK293 cells were transfected with 50 ng of the wild type or 50 ng ofthe Q175H pre-mRNA constructs. cDNA was prepared from these transfectedcells and was used as template material in a 32-cycle PCR reaction whoseproducts were then run on an agarose gel. The expected amplicon lengthsfrom the various PCR primer combinations are given in Table 4. Both WTand alternatively spliced ANGPTL7 transcripts were produced from boththe WT and Q175H ANGPTL7 pre-mRNA constructs in transfected HEK-293cells (FIG. 10). Note that the relative abundance of these transcriptscannot be determined from this PCR assay.

TABLE 4 Primers Sets and Expected Amplicons for Detection of the ProteinCoding (WT) and Noncoding (Trunc) Transcripts Truncated Primer SetSplice Form WT mRNA WT pre-mRNA Truncated mRNA pre-mRNA Set 3B (ET Trunc2 MM at 3′ 26 2 MM at 3′ 26 142 bp 3 MM at 3′ 26 P00011/26) Set 3C (ETWT 208 bp 894 bp 2 MM at 3′ 27 3 MM at 3′ 27 P00011/27) Set 3D (ET WT209 bp 895 bp 2 MM at 3′ 28 3 MM at 3′ 28 P00011/28) Set 5A (ET Trunc 2MM at 3′ 25 2 MMat 3′ 25, 1 2 MM at 3′ 15 3 MM at 3′ 25, P00015/25) MM15 1 MM 15 Set 5B (ET Trunc 2 MM at 3′ 26 2 MM at 3′ 26, 1 2 MM at 3′ 153 MM at 3′ 26, P00015/26) MM 15 1 MM 15 Set 5C (ET WT 97 bp 1 MM at 3′15 2 MM at 3′ 27, 15 3 MM at 3′ 27, P00015/27) 1 MM 15 Set 5D (ET WT 98bp 1 MM at 3′ 15 2 MM at 3′ 28, 15 3 MM at 3′ 28, P00015/28) 1 MM 15

Next, primary human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells were plated at25,000 cells/well in 24-well plates in complete HTM growth medium andgrown overnight. Cells were treated with dexamethasone or vehicle (100%EtOH) for 5 days, then cDNA was harvested with Cells-to-Ct kit andassayed by qPCR with probes for ANGPTL7 and MYOC (FIG. 11). Stronginduction of ANGPTL7 and MYOC was observed. Next, cDNA fromdexamethasone induced pHTM cells was used as a template in transcriptspecific PCR reactions using a subset of the primers used above (Table4). PCR products indicate that the protein coding transcript is presentin dexamethasone induced pHTM cells, and that the noncoding oralternatively spliced transcript form is also likely present (but nearthe limit of detection) using this assay (see FIG. 12).

Therefore, evaluation of native transcripts in pHTM cells as well asevaluation of transcripts arising from pre-mRNA plasmid constructstransfected in HEK293 cells have demonstrated the existence ofalternatively spliced ANGPTL7 transcripts consistent with the existenceof the putative ANGPLT7 noncoding transcript and suggests a potentialmechanism of disease risk modulation.

Example 4 Using CRISPR Knock-Ins to Determine that Protein AlteringVariants in ANGPTL7 Alter Transcript and/or Protein Abundance

ANGPTL7 CRISPR knock-ins are created for the rs28991009 (Q175H),rs28991002 (R140H) and rs143435072 (R177Ter) variants in immortalizedhuman trabecular meshwork cells (iHTMs). For rs28991009 knock-increation, the T allele replaces the G allele at position chr1:11253684(human genome build 37). This creates a Gln175His amino acidsubstitution in the ANGPTL7 protein. For rs28991002 knock-in creation,the A allele replaces the G allele at position chr1:11252369 (humangenome build 37). For rs143435072 knock-in creation, the T allelereplaces the C allele at position chr1:11253688 (human genome build 37).This creates an Arg177Ter premature stop codon.

Knock-in and wild type iHTM cells are used to demonstrate that theprotein altering variants in ANGPTL7 result in secretion defects, oralterations in coding and/or noncoding transcript abundance, oralterations in protein abundance, thereby resulting in loss offunctional ANGPTL7 protein. Knock-in and wild-type iHTM cells are grownto confluency and then serially passaged in complete IMEM mediasupplemented with 10% FBS until growing well. Cells are plated in24-well plates and left untreated or treated with DEX. DEX (Sigma) stocksolution is prepared by adding absolute ethanol to the commercial vialobtaining a final concentration of 0.1 mM and kept at 4° C. The DEXstock solution of 0.1 μM is diluted 1000× (100 nM final concentration)in IMEM media before use. Parallel wells receive IMEM medium containingthe drug vehicle under the same conditions. Seventy-two hours aftertreatment cells are harvested with Cells-to-Ct reagent.

qPCR is performed using the ABI Prism 7900HT Fast Real-Time PCR System(ThermoFisher, Carlsbad, Calif.). Amplification by PCR is performedaccording to the manufacturer's protocols (ThermoFisher). Primers andprobes for the ANGPTL7 protein coding (ENST00000376819) and noncoding(ENST00000476934) transcripts are used to quantitate the relativeabundance of protein coding and noncoding transcript arising from theWT, Q175H, R140H and Arg177Ter knock-in iHTM cells.

Gene expression of extracellular matrix and glaucoma related genes arealso evaluated from this same experiment using the same qPCR system.These genes include myocilin (MYOC), collagens type I and V (COL1A1 andCOL5A1), versican (VCAN) and fibronectin (FN1). The composition andquality of the extracellular matrix in which human trabecular meshworkcells are embedded is directly relevant to the aqueous humor outflow andglaucoma disease pathology.

Northern blots are also performed to quantitate the relative abundanceof protein coding and noncoding transcript arising from WT, Q175H, R140Hand Arg177Ter knock-in iHTM cells. Knock-in and wild-type iHTM cells aregrown to confluency and then serially passaged in complete IMEM mediasupplemented with 10% FBS until growing well. Cells are plated in24-well plates and left untreated or treated with DEX. Parallel wellsreceive IMEM medium containing the drug vehicle under the sameconditions. Seventy-two hours after treatment total RNA is extracted forNorthern blot using a probe which captures both the protein coding andnoncoding ANGPTL7 transcripts.

Western blots are also performed to quantitate the relative abundance ofANGPTL7 protein arising from WT, Q175H, R140H and Arg177Ter knock-iniHTM cells. Knock-in and wild-type iHTM cells are grown to confluencyand then serially passaged in complete IMEM media supplemented with 10%FBS until growing well. Cells are plated in 24-well plates and leftuntreated or treated with DEX. Parallel wells receive IMEM mediumcontaining the drug vehicle under the same conditions. Seventy-two hoursafter treatment cells are trypsinized and cell lysates prepared using aRIPA buffer. Cell lysates and cell culture supernatants are used toperform Western blots using an ANGPTL7 antibody (Abcam) and a GAPDHantibody (Abcam) as a loading control. The Western blot of lysates andsupernatants is used to determine if the missense variant modulatesANGPTL7 protein abundance or ANGPTL7 protein secretion.

Example 5 Using Human Cells with Known Genotypes to Determine thatProtein Altering Variants in ANGPTL7 Alter Transcript and/or ProteinAbundance

Human EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL) from donors thatare known heterozygous or homozygous carriers of the minor alleles ofrs28991009 (Q175H), rs28991002 (R140H) and rs143435072 (R177Ter) areacquired. A subset of the cells from each donor are transformed toinduced pluripotent stem cells and further differentiated to primaryhuman trabecular meshwork cells (pHTM).

LCL and pHTM cells from variant carriers are compared to non-carriersand are used to demonstrate that the protein altering variants inANGPTL7 result in secretion defects, or alterations in coding and/ornoncoding transcript abundance, or alterations in protein abundance,thereby resulting in loss of functional ANGPTL7 protein. LCL and pHTMcells are grown to confluency and then serially passaged in completeIMEM media supplemented with 10% FBS until growing well. Cells areplated in 24-well plates and left untreated or treated with DEX. DEX(Sigma) stock solution is prepared by adding absolute ethanol to thecommercial vial obtaining a final concentration of 0.1 mM and kept at 4°C. The DEX stock solution of 0.1 μM is diluted 1000× (100 nM finalconcentration) in IMEM media before use. Parallel wells receive IMEMmedium containing the drug vehicle under the same conditions.Seventy-two hours after treatment cells are harvested with Cells-to-Ctreagent.

qPCR is performed using the ABI Prism 7900HT Fast Real-Time PCR System(ThermoFisher, Carlsbad, Calif.). Amplification by PCR is performedaccording to the manufacturer's protocols (ThermoFisher). Primers andprobes for the ANGPTL7 protein coding (ENST00000376819) and noncoding(ENST00000476934) transcripts are used to quantitate the relativeabundance of protein coding and noncoding transcript in LCL and pHTMcells from donors.

Gene expression of extracellular matrix and glaucoma related genes arealso evaluated from this same experiment using the same qPCR system.These genes include myocilin (MYOC), collagens type I and V (COL1A1 andCOL5A1), versican (VCAN) and fibronectin (FN1). The composition andquality of the extracellular matrix in which human trabecular meshworkcells are embedded is directly relevant to the aqueous humor outflow andglaucoma disease pathology.

Northern blots are also performed to quantitate the relative abundanceof protein coding and noncoding transcript in LCL and pHTM donor-derivedcells. LCL and pHTM cells are grown to confluency and then seriallypassaged in complete IMEM media supplemented with 10% FBS until growingwell. Cells are plated in 24-well plates and left untreated or treatedwith DEX. Parallel wells receive IMEM medium containing the drug vehicleunder the same conditions. Seventy-two hours after treatment total RNAis extracted for Northern blot using a probe which captures both theprotein coding and noncoding ANGPTL7 transcripts.

Western blots are also performed to quantitate the relative abundance ofANGPTL7 protein arising in LCL and pHTM donor-derived cells. LCL andpHTM cells are grown to confluency and then serially passaged incomplete IMEM media supplemented with 10% FBS until growing well. Cellsare plated in 24-well plates and left untreated or treated with DEX.Parallel wells receive IMEM medium containing the drug vehicle under thesame conditions. Seventy-two hours after treatment cells are trypsinizedand cell lysates prepared using a RIPA buffer. Cell lysates and cellculture supernatants are used to perform Western blots using an ANGPTL7antibody (Abcam) and a GAPDH antibody (Abcam) as a loading control. TheWestern blot of lysates and supernatants is used to determine if themissense variant modulates ANGPTL7 protein abundance or ANGPTL7 proteinsecretion.

Example 6 RNA Synthesis and Duplex Annealing 1. OligonucleotideSynthesis:

All oligonucleotides are synthesized on an AKTA oligopilot synthesizeror an ABI 394 synthesizer. Commercially available controlled pore glasssolid support (dT-CPG, 500A, Prime Synthesis) and RNA phosphoramiditeswith standard protecting groups, 5′-0-dimethoxytritylN6-benzoyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-adenosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite,5′-0-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-cytidine-3′-0-N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite,5′-0-dimethoxytrityl-N2˜isobutryl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-guanosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite,and5-0-dimethoxytrityl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-uridine-3′-0-N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite(Pierce Nucleic Acids Technologies) are used for the oligonucleotidesynthesis unless otherwise specified. The 2′-F phosphoramidites,5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-fluro-cytidine-3′-0-N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethyl-phosphoramidite and5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-fluro-uridine-3′-0-N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethyl-phosphoramiditeare purchased from (Promega). All phosphoramidites are used at aconcentration of 0.2M in acetonitrile (CH3CN) except for guanosine whichis used at 0.2M concentration in 10% THF/ANC (v/v). Coupling/recyclingtime of 16 minutes is used. The activator is 5 -ethyl thiotetrazole(0.75M, American International Chemicals), for the PO-oxidationIodine/Water/Pyridine is used and the PS-oxidation PADS (2%>) in2,6-lutidine/ACN (1:1 v/v) is used.

2. Deprotection- 1 (Nucleobase Deprotection)

After completion of synthesis, the support is transferred to a 100 mlglass bottle (VWR). The oligonucleotide is cleaved from the support withsimultaneous deprotection of base and phosphate groups with 80 mL of amixture of ethanolic ammonia [ammonia: ethanol (3:1)] for 6.5 h at 55°C. The bottle is cooled briefly on ice and then the ethanolic ammoniamixture is filtered into a new 250 ml bottle. The CPG is washed with2×40 mL portions of ethanol/water (1 :1 v/v). The volume of the mixtureis then reduced to ˜30 ml by roto-vap. The mixture is then frozen on dryice and dried under vacuum on a speed vac.

3. Deprotection-II (Removal of 2′ TBDMS Group)

The dried residue is resuspended in 26 ml of triethylamine,triethylamine trihydro fluoride (TEA.3HF) or pyridine-HF and DMSO(3:4:6) and heated at 60° C. for 90 minutes to remove thetert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) groups at the 2′ position. The reactionis then quenched with 50 ml of 20 mM sodium acetate and pH adjusted to6.5, and stored in freezer until purification.

4. Analysis

The oligonucleotides are analyzed by high-performance liquidchromatography (HPLC) prior to purification and selection of buffer andcolumn depends on nature of the sequence and or conjugated ligand.

5. HPLC Purification

The ligand conjugated oligonucleotides are purified reverse phasepreparative HPLC. The unconjugated oligonucleotides are purified byanion-exchange HPLC on a TSK gel column packed in house. The buffers are20 mM sodium phosphate (pH 8.5) in 10% CH3CN (buffer A) and 20 mM sodiumphosphate (pH 8.5) in 10% CH3CN, 1M NaBr (buffer B). Fractionscontaining full-length oligonucleotides are pooled, desalted, andlyophilized. Approximately 0.15 OD of desalted oligonucleotides arediluted in water to 150 μï and then pipetted in special vials for CGEand LC/MS analysis.

Compounds are finally analyzed by LC-ESMS and CGE.

6. siRNA Preparation

For the preparation of siRNA, equimolar amounts of sense and antisensestrand are heated in 1× PBS at 95° C. for 5 min and slowly cooled toroom temperature.

Integrity of the duplex is confirmed by HPLC analysis.

Example 7 Selection of Sequences in Order to Identify Therapeutic siRNAsto Modulate Expression of the ANGPTL7 mRNA

Screening sets were defined based by bioinformatic analysis. Thetherapeutic siRNA molecule has to target human ANGPTL7 as well as theANGPTL7 sequence of at least one toxicology-relevant species, in thiscase, the non-human primates (NHP) rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys. Thekey drivers for the design of the screening set were predictedspecificity of the siRNAs against the transcriptome of the relevantspecies as well as cross-reactivity between species. Predictedspecificity in human, rhesus monkey, cynomolgus monkey, mouse, rat anddog was determined for sense (S) and antisense (AS) strand. These wereassigned a “specificity score” which considers the likelihood ofunintended downregulation of any other transcript by full or partialcomplementarity of an siRNA strand (up to 4 mismatches within positions2-18) as well as the number and positions of mismatches. Thus, thepredicted most likely off-target(s) for antisense and sense strand ofeach siRNA can be identified. In addition, the number of potentialoff-targets is used as an additional specificity factor in thespecificity score. It is preferable to identify siRNAs with highspecificity and a low number of predicted off-targets.

In addition to selecting siRNA sequences with high sequence specificityto ANGPTL7 mRNA, siRNA sequences within the seed region were analyzedfor similarity to seed regions of known miRNAs. siRNAs can function in amiRNA like manner via base-pairing with complementary sequences withinthe 3′-UTR of mRNA molecules. The complementarity typically encompassesthe 5′-bases at positions 2-7 of the miRNA (seed region). In order tocircumvent siRNAs to act via functional miRNA binding sites, siRNAstrands are avoided that contain natural miRNA seed regions. Seedregions identified in miRNAs from human, mouse, rat, rhesus monkey, dog,rabbit and pig are referred to as “conserved”. Combining the“specificity score” with miRNA seed analysis yields the “specificitycategory”. This is divided into categories 1-4, with 1 having thehighest specificity and 4 having the lowest specificity. Each strand ofthe siRNA is assigned to a specificity category.

Species cross-reactivity was assessed for human, cynomolgus monkey,rhesus monkey, mouse, rat, dog, and rabbit. The analysis was based on acanonical siRNA design using 19 bases and 17 bases (without consideringpositions 1 and 19) for cross-reactivity. Full match as well as singlemismatch analysis was included.

Analysis of the human Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) database(NCBI-DB-SNP) to identify siRNAs targeting regions with known SNPs wasalso carried out in order to identify siRNAs that may be non-functionalin individuals containing the SNP. Information regarding the positionsof SNPs within the target sequence as well as minor allele frequency(MAF) in case data was obtained in this analysis.

Initial analysis of the relevant ANGPTL7 mRNA sequence revealed fewsequences can be identified that fulfil the specificity requirements andat the same time target ANGPTL7 mRNA in all relevant species. Therefore,it was decided to design independent screening subsets for thetherapeutic siRNAs.

All siRNAs in these subsets recognize the human ANGPTL7 sequence, as ahuman cell culture system was selected for determination of in vitroactivity. Therefore, all siRNAs in these subsets can be used to targethuman ANGPTL7 in a therapeutic setting.

The number of 19mer sequences that can be derived from human ANGPTL7mRNA (NM_021146.4) without consideration of specificity or speciescross-reactivity is 2,206 (sense strand SEQ ID NOS: 1-2206). This setwould encompass all possible ANGPTL7 siRNA sequences.

Prioritizing sequences for target specificity, species cross-reactivity,miRNA seed region sequences and SNPs as described above yields siRNAsubset A. This subset is composed of 207 siRNAs with sense strand SEQ IDNOS: 7, 39, 42, 92, 93, 94, 95, 98, 99, 103, 112, 113, 114, 115, 117,118, 119, 120, 124, 125, 127, 206, 207, 227, 257, 271, 272, 480, 487,488, 489, 490, 491, 492, 493, 497, 498, 499, 501, 579, 583, 584, 587,588, 592, 593, 594, 596, 598, 600, 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 629,630, 634, 636, 637, 642, 645, 646, 649, 652, 657, 658, 739, 740, 741,742, 743, 751, 756, 804, 813, 817, 819, 845, 846, 849, 852, 871, 872,873, 874, 875, 876, 878, 879, 881, 905, 906, 907, 908, 915, 916, 917,918, 919, 920, 923, 943, 944, 948, 952, 953, 958, 960, 974, 976, 977,979, 982, 983, 984, 985, 986, 988, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 997, 1000,1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1009, 1011, 1016, 1020, 1021, 1085, 1086, 1087,1088, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1131, 1132, 1133, 1134, 1138, 1140,1197, 1198, 1199, 1201, 1202, 1260, 1262, 1263, 1264, 1424, 1425, 1427,1429, 1430, 1434, 1435, 1436, 1438, 1460, 1463, 1524, 1525, 1527, 1528,1530, 1532, 1533, 1537, 1538, 1539, 1541, 1639, 1640, 1654, 1691, 1692,1693, 1694, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1795, 1796, 1797, 1798, 1968, 1969,2030, 2085, 2087, 2089, 2091, 2095, 2099, and 2192.

The siRNAs in siRNA subset A has the following characteristics:

-   -   1. Cross-reactivity: With 19mer in human ANGPTL7 mRNA, with        17mer/19mer in NHP ANGPTL7    -   2. Specificity category: For human and NHP: —AS2 or better, SS3        or better miRNA seeds: AS+SS strand: —seed region not conserved        in human, mouse, and rat and not present in >4 species    -   3. Off-target frequency: ≤20 human off-targets matched with 2        mismatches by antisense strand    -   4. SNPs: siRNA target sites do not harbor SNPs with a MAF≥1%        (pos. 2-18)

The siRNA sequences in siRNA subset A can further be selected for morestringent specificity to yield siRNA subset B. SiRNA subset B iscomposed of 173 siRNAs with sense strand SEQ ID NOS: 7, 39, 92, 93, 94,95, 98, 99, 112, 113, 114, 115, 117, 118, 119, 120, 124, 125, 127, 207,257, 271, 272, 487, 488, 489, 490, 491, 492, 493, 497, 498, 499, 501,579, 583, 587, 588, 593, 594, 596, 598, 600, 601, 602, 603, 604, 605,606, 629, 630, 634, 636, 637, 642, 645, 646, 649, 652, 739, 740, 741,742, 743, 804, 813, 817, 845, 849, 852, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 876,878, 879, 881, 905, 906, 907, 908, 915, 916, 917, 918, 919, 920, 923,944, 952, 953, 958, 960, 974, 976, 977, 979, 982, 984, 985, 989, 990,991, 992, 993, 997, 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1009, 1016, 1021,1085, 1086, 1087, 1088, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1131, 1132, 1133,1134, 1138, 1140, 1197, 1198, 1199, 1201, 1202, 1262, 1263, 1424, 1425,1427, 1429, 1430, 1434, 1435, 1436, 1460, 1463, 1524, 1525, 1527, 1528,1530, 1532, 1533, 1537, 1538, 1539, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1692, 1764,1765, 1794, 1795, 1796, 1797, 1798, 1968, 2091, and 2095.

The siRNAs in siRNA subset B has the following characteristics:

-   -   1. Cross-reactivity: With 19mer in human ANGPTL7 mRNA, with        17mer/19mer in NHP ANGPTL7    -   2. Specificity category: For human and NHP: —AS2 or better, SS3        or better miRNA seeds: AS+SS strand: —seed region not conserved        in human, mouse, and rat and not present in >4 species    -   3. Off-target frequency: ≤15 human off-targets matched with 2        mismatches by antisense strand    -   4. SNPs: siRNA target sites do not harbor SNPs with a MAF ≥1%        (pos. 2-18)

The siRNA sequences in siRNA subset B can further be selected forabsence of seed regions in the AS strand that are identical to a seedregion of known human miRNA to yield siRNA subset C. SiRNA subset C iscomposed of 120 siRNAs with sense strand SEQ ID NOS: 7, 39, 92, 94, 113,114, 115, 117, 118, 119, 120, 127, 207, 257, 271, 272, 488, 489, 490,498, 499, 501, 579, 587, 588, 593, 594, 596, 600, 601, 605, 606, 629,630, 636, 642, 645, 646, 739, 740, 741, 742, 743, 813, 845, 849, 871,872, 873, 878, 879, 881, 905, 906, 907, 908, 916, 917, 918, 919, 952,958, 976, 979, 982, 984, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 1000, 1002, 1003,1004, 1009, 1016, 1087, 1088, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1131, 1132,1133, 1134, 1198, 1199, 1201, 1202, 1262, 1424, 1427, 1434, 1435, 1463,1524, 1525, 1527, 1528, 1530, 1532, 1533, 1537, 1538, 1541, 1639, 1691,1692, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1798, 1968, 2091, and 2095.

The siRNAs in siRNA subset C has the following characteristics:

-   -   1. Cross-reactivity: With 19mer in human ANGPTL7 mRNA, with        17mer/19mer in NHP ANGPTL7    -   2. Specificity category: For human and NHP: —AS2 or better, SS3        or better miRNA seeds: AS+SS strand: —seed region not conserved        in human, mouse, and rat and not present in >4 species. AS        strand: —seed region not identical to seed region of known human        miRNA    -   3. Off-target frequency: ≤15 human off-targets matched with 2        mismatches by antisense strand    -   4. SNPs: siRNA target sites do not harbor SNPs with a MAF≥1%        (pos. 2-18)

The siRNA sequences in siRNA subset C can also be selected for absenceof seed regions in the AS or S strands that are identical to a seedregion of known human miRNA to yield siRNA subset D. SiRNA subset D iscomposed of 90 siRNAs with sense strand SEQ ID NOS: 92, 113, 115, 119,120, 127, 488, 490, 499, 579, 587, 588, 592, 593, 594, 600, 601, 605,606, 630, 642, 657, 658, 740, 742, 743, 813, 846, 871, 872, 878, 881,905, 907, 916, 917, 918, 919, 943, 948, 958, 979, 982, 983, 984, 989,990, 991, 992, 1000, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1016, 1020, 1087, 1088, 1097,1105, 1107, 1131, 1132, 1133, 1134, 1199, 1202, 1260, 1262, 1264, 1427,1435, 1438, 1463, 1524, 1525, 1527, 1528, 1532, 1538, 1541, 1639, 1692,1762, 1765, 1794, 1797, 1968, 2030, 2095, and 2192.

The siRNAs in siRNA subset D has the following characteristics:

-   -   1. Cross-reactivity: With 19mer in human ANGPTL7 mRNA, with        17mer/19mer in NHP ANGPTL7    -   2. Specificity category: For human and NHP: —AS2 or better, SS3        or better miRNA seeds: AS+SS strand: —seed region not conserved        in human, mouse, and rat and not present in >4 species. AS+SS        strand: —seed region not identical to seed region of known human        miRNA    -   3. Off-target frequency: ≤20 human off-targets matched with 2        mismatches by antisense strand    -   4. SNPs: siRNA target sites do not harbor SNPs with a MAF ≥1%        (pos. 2-18)

The siRNA sequences in siRNA subset D can further be selected for morestringent specificity to yield siRNA subset E. SiRNA subset E iscomposed of 76 siRNAs with sense strand SEQ ID NOS: 92, 113, 115, 119,120, 127, 488, 490, 499, 579, 587, 588, 593, 594, 600, 601, 605, 606,630, 642, 740, 742, 743, 813, 871, 872, 878, 881, 905, 907, 916, 917,918, 919, 958, 979, 982, 984, 989, 990, 991, 992, 1000, 1002, 1003,1004, 1016, 1087, 1088, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1131, 1132, 1133, 1134, 1199,1202, 1262, 1427, 1435, 1463, 1524, 1525, 1527, 1528, 1532, 1538, 1541,1639, 1692, 1765, 1794, 1797, 1968, and 2095.

The siRNAs in siRNA subset E has the following characteristics:

-   -   1. Cross-reactivity: With 19mer in human ANGPTL7 mRNA, with        17mer/19mer in NHP ANGPTL7    -   2. Specificity category: For human and NHP: —AS2 or better, SS3        or better miRNA seeds: AS+SS strand: —seed region not conserved        in human, mouse, and rat and not present in >4 species. AS+SS        strand: —seed region not identical to seed region of known human        miRNA    -   3. Off-target frequency: ≤15 human off-targets matched with 2        mismatches by antisense strand    -   4. SNPs: siRNA target sites do not harbor SNPs with a MAF ≥1%        (pos. 2-18)

Example 8 siRNA or Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO)-Mediated Modulationof ANGPTL7 Expression in Primary Human Trabecular Meshwork Xells (pHTMs)in the Presence and Absence of Dexamethasone (DEX)

In this experiment, siRNA or ASO inhibition of ANGPTL7 is performed inprimary human trabecular meshwork cells, to evaluate the efficacy ofknockdown of ANGPTL7 and the effect of this on extracellular matrix andglaucoma related genes including myocilin (MYOC), collagens type I and V(COL1A1 and COL5A1), versican (VCAN) and fibronectin (FN1). Thecomposition and quality of the extracellular matrix in which humantrabecular meshwork cells are embedded is directly relevant to theaqueous humor outflow and glaucoma disease pathology.

Primary HTM cells are grown to confluency and then serially passaged incomplete IMEM media supplemented with 10% FBS until passage 4. Cells arethen transfected in a 24-well plate with a non-targeting control orANGPTL7 targeting siRNA. The ANGPTL7 siRNA has the following sequence:sense strand 5′ GUACAACUGCUGCACAGACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11089), antisensestrand 5′ GUCUGUGCAGCAGUUGUACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11090). The non-targetingcontrol siRNA has the following sequence: sense strand 5′GUUGUACAGCAUGCGGAGAUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11091), antisense strand 5′UCUCCGCAUGCUGUACAACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11092). In parallel, cells aretransfected in a 24-well plate with a non-targeting control ASO orANGPTL7 ASO. The ANGPTL7 ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmTsmGsmTsmAsdCsdCsdAsdGsdTsdAsdGsdCsdCsdAsmCsmCsmTsmTsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO:11087). The non-targeting control ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmCsmTsmAsmAsdCsdCsdGsdAsdGsdCsdTsdGsdAsdTsmGsmGsmAsmCsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO:11088). Briefly, transfections are performed using TransIT TKO(Mirus) following the manufacturer's recommended protocol. For each wellreceiving siRNA, 1 ul siRNA (10 uM stock), 2.5u1 TransIT-TKO, and 50u1OptiMEM are mixed, incubated at room temperature for 30 minutes, andadded dropwise to each well containing cells and 1 mL complete IMEMmedia. For each well receiving ASO, 1 ul ASO (1 mM stock), 2.5 ulTransIT-TKO, and 50 ul OptiMEM are mixed, incubated at room temperaturefor 30 minutes, and added dropwise to each well containing cells and 1mL complete IMEM media.

Twenty-four hours after transfection, media is changed and HTM cells aretreated with DEX for 48 hours in the presence of serum. DEX (Sigma)stock solution is prepared by adding absolute ethanol to the commercialvial obtaining a final concentration of 0.1 mM and kept at 4° C. The DEXstock solution of 0.1 μM is diluted 1000× (100 nM final concentration)in IMEM media before use. Parallel wells receive IMEM medium containingthe drug vehicle under the same conditions. At the end of eachtreatment, cells are washed two times with PBS, lysed with 350 μLguanidine thiocyanate buffer and processed for RNA extraction.

Total RNA is reverse transcribed to cDNA using a First-Strand III cDNASynthesis kit. Normalized cDNA quantification is carried out byreal-time TaqMan PCR using fluorescently labeled TaqMan probes/primerssets of selected genes (ANGPTL7, MYOC, COL1A1, COL5A1, VCAN, FN1, andPPIA). Reactions are carried out in 20 μL aliquots using TaqManUniversal PCR Master Mix No AmpErase UNG ran on an ABI Prism 7500 FastReal-Time PCR System Sequence Detection System and analyzed by the 7500System software. Relative Quantification (RQ) values between treated anduntreated samples are calculated by the formula 2^(ΔΔCT), where C_(T) isthe cycle at threshold (automatic measurement), ΔC_(T) is C_(T) of theassayed gene minus C_(T) of the endogenous control (PPIA), and ΔΔC_(T)is the ΔC_(T) of the normalized assayed gene in the treated sample minusthe ΔC_(T) of the same gene in the untreated one (calibrator).

Example 9 siRNA-Mediated Modulation of ANGPTL7 in a Mouse Model ofDexamethasone-Induced Ocular Hypertension/Glaucoma

In this experiment, the glucocorticoid-induced mouse model of glaucomais used to evaluate the effect of siRNA inhibition of ANGPTL7 on IOP.C57BL/6J mice that receive weekly periocular conjunctival fornix (CF)injections of a dexamethasone-21-acetate (Dex-Ac) formulation developrelatively rapid and significant elevation of IOP that is correlatedwith reduced conventional outflow facility, similar to glaucomatousdisease in human patients.

Three routes of delivery are evaluated for siRNA inhibition of ANGPTL7.These include (1) intracameral injection (2) intravitreal injection and(3) topical delivery administered in eye drops.

Adult (6-8 months old) C57BL/6J mice are obtained from the JacksonLaboratory (Bar Harbor, Me.). The animals are kept in environmentallycontrolled rooms under specific pathogen-free conditions (temperature,20-26° C.); humidity, 30-70%) with a 12-hour light-dark cycle for 2weeks before use. Food and water are available ad libitum. All animalsare used in accordance with animal care guidelines.

Mice are divided into 9 groups. All treatments are applied to both eyes.Group A (n=4) is an untreated group. Group B (n=4) is a group treatedwith weekly periocular injections of Dex-Ac (four total treatments).Group C (n=4) is a group treated with vehicle. Group D (n=4) is treatedwith Dex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targeting siRNA via intracameral injectioninto the anterior chamber. Group E (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and anon-targeting control siRNA via intracameral injection into the anteriorchamber. Group F (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targetingsiRNA via intravitreal injection into the posterior chamber. Group G(n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and a non-targeting control siRNA viaintravitreal injection into the posterior chamber. Group H (n=4) istreated with Dex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targeting siRNA via topicaladministration of an eye drop. Group I (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac anda non-targeting control siRNA via topical administration of an eye drop.

The ANGPTL7 siRNA has the following sequence: sense strand 5′GUACAACUGCUGCACAGACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11089), antisense strand 5′GUCUGUGCAGCAGUUGUACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11090). Some preferred siRNAsequences may include any one of ETD00342 (sense strand 5′CfsasAfaGfgUfGfGfcUfaCfuGfgUfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11172, antisensestrand 5′ usUfsaCfcAfgUfaGfccaCfcUfuUfgsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11292),ETD00343 (sense strand 5′ AfsasGfgUfgGfCfUfaCfuGfgUfaCfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ IDNO: 11173, antisense strand 5′ usUfsgUfaCfcAfgUfagcCfaCfcUfususu 3′ SEQID NO: 11293), ETD00344 (sense strand 5′GfsusGfgCfuAfCfUfgGfuAfcAfaCfuAfsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11174, antisensestrand 5′ usAfsgUfuGfuAfcCfaguAfgCfcAfcsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11294),ETD00345 (sense strand 5′ UfsgsGfuAfcAfAfCfuGfcUfgCfaCfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ IDNO: 11175, antisense strand 5′ usUfsgUfgCfaGfcAfguuGfuAfcCfasusu 3′ SEQID NO: 11295) or ETD00346 (sense strand 5′GfsusAfcAfaCfUfGfcUfgCfaCfaGfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11176, antisensestrand 5′ usUfscUfgUfgCfaGfcagUfuGfuAfcsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11296). Someembodiments include any one of ETD00342, ETD00343, ETD00344, ETD00345,or ETD00346, but without the modification patterns of any of SEQ ID NOs:11172-11176 or 11292-11296, or with different modifications ormodification patterns than those SEQ ID NOs. A hydrophobic moiety, suchas cholesterol, may also be attached to the siRNA. A ligand that bindsto receptors on the cell surface, such as RGD to integrins, may also beattached to the siRNA. Hydrophobic groups may be combined withcell-targeting ligands to increase cellular uptake. The non-targetingcontrol siRNA has the following sequence: sense strand 5′GUUGUACAGCAUGCGGAGAUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11091), antisense strand 5′UCUCCGCAUGCUGUACAACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11092).

For periocular injection of Dex-Ac or vehicle, a 32-gauge needle with aHamilton glass microsyringe (25-μL volume; Hamilton Company, Reno, Nev.)is used. The lower eyelid is retracted, and the needle is insertedthrough the CF. Dex-Ac or vehicle suspension (20 μL) is injectedimmediately under the CF over the course of 10 to 15 seconds. The needleis then withdrawn. The procedure is performed on both eyes of eachanimal (each animal receives either Dex-Ac in both eyes or vehicle inboth eyes). Mice are treated with Dex-Ac or vehicle once per week untilthe end of the study.

For intracameral injections, a topical anesthetic (tetracainehydrochloride 0.5%, Bausch & Lomb) is applied to the eye. 1 ug of siRNAor scrambled control in vehicle is injected using a 36G beveled needlemounted on a 10 μl microsyringe. An UltraMicroPump II (World precisioninstrument's UMP2 and UMC4) is used to precisely control the volume ofinjection. The needle is entered at the limbus and care is taken not totraumatize the iris or the lens. Mice with injury to iris or lens areexcluded from the study. As the needle is withdrawn after injection, acotton tip applicator is applied for about 1 minute to prevent aqueousreflux.

For intravitreal injection, a 33-gauge needle with a glass microsyringe(10-μL volume; Hamilton Company) is used. The eye is proptosed, and theneedle is inserted through the equatorial sclera and inserted into thevitreous chamber at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, taking care toavoid touching the posterior part of the lens or the retina. 1 Oug ofsiRNA or scrambled control in vehicle is injected into the vitreous overthe course of 1 minute. The needle is then left in place for a further30 seconds (to facilitate mixing), before being rapidly withdrawn.

The study length is 32 days. Oligonucleotide treatment (siRNA orscrambled controls) occurs on days 0 and 14. Dex-Ac treatment occursonce weekly on days 7, 14, 21 and 28 Animals are euthanized and tissuesharvested on day 32.

IOP is measured on days 0, 14 and 28, just prior to any treatment. Micefrom each group are anaesthetized using intraperitoneal injection (0.1μL) of ketamine (100 mg/kg) and xylazine (9 mg/kg). One mouse isanaesthetized at a time and IOP is measured as soon as the mouse failsto respond to touch. All care is taken to ensure that the mice are in asimilar level of anesthesia when the IOP measurements are made. Tomeasure the IOP, a handheld tonometer (TonoLab, Colonial Medical Supply,Franconia, N.H.) is used.

Mice are euthanized on day 32. Both eyes from each animal will beharvested and dissected along the equator, and the anterior hemisphereplaced in RNAlater. Total RNA is extracted from homogenized tissue andreverse transcribed to cDNA using a First-Strand III cDNA Synthesis kit.Normalized cDNA quantification is carried out by real-time TaqMan PCRusing fluorescently labeled TaqMan probes/primers sets of selected genes(ANGPTL7, MYOC, COL1A1, COL5A1, VCAN, FN1, and PPIA). Reactions arecarried out in 20 μL aliquots using TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix NoAmpErase UNG ran on an ABI Prism 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System SequenceDetection System and analyzed by the 7500 System software. RelativeQuantification (RQ) values between treated and untreated samples arecalculated by the formula 2^(−ΔΔCT), where CT is the cycle at threshold(automatic measurement), ΔC_(T) is CT of the assayed gene minus CT ofthe endogenous control (PPIA), and ΔΔC_(T) is the ΔC_(T) of thenormalized assayed gene in the treated sample minus the ΔC_(T) of thesame gene in the untreated one (calibrator).

Example 10 Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO)-Mediated Modulation ofANGPTL7 in a Mouse Model of Dexamethasone-Induced OcularHypertension/Glaucoma

In this experiment, the glucocorticoid-induced mouse model of glaucomais used to evaluate the effect of ASO inhibition of ANGPTL7 on IOP.C57BL/6J mice that receive weekly periocular conjunctival fornix (CF)injections of a dexamethasone-21-acetate (Dex-Ac) formulation developrelatively rapid and significant elevation of IOP that is correlatedwith reduced conventional outflow facility, similar to glaucomatousdisease in human patients.

Three routes of delivery are evaluated for ASO inhibition of ANGPTL7.These include (1) intracameral injection (2) intravitreal injection and(3) topical delivery administered in eye drops.

Adult (6-8 months old) C57BL/6J mice are obtained from the JacksonLaboratory (Bar Harbor, Me.). The animals are kept in environmentallycontrolled rooms under specific pathogen-free conditions (temperature,20-26° C.); humidity, 30-70%) with a 12-hour light-dark cycle for 2weeks before use. Food and water are available ad libitum. All animalsare used in accordance with animal care guidelines.

Mice are divided into 9 groups. All treatments are applied to both eyes.Group A (n=4) is an untreated group. Group B (n=4) is a group treatedwith weekly periocular injections of Dex-Ac (four total treatments).Group C (n=4) is a group treated with vehicle. Group D (n=4) is treatedwith Dex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targeting ASO via intracameral injection intothe anterior chamber. Group E (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and anon-targeting control ASO via intracameral injection into the anteriorchamber. Group F (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targetingASO via intravitreal injection into the posterior chamber. Group G (n=4)is treated with Dex-Ac and a non-targeting control ASO via intravitrealinjection into the posterior chamber. Group H (n=4) is treated withDex-Ac and an ANGPTL7 targeting ASO via topical administration of an eyedrop. Group I (n=4) is treated with Dex-Ac and a non-targeting controlASO via topical administration of an eye drop.

The ANGPTL7 ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmTsmGsmTsmAsdCsdCsdAsdGsdTsdAsdGsdCsdCsdAsmCsmCsmTsmTsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11087). The non-targeting control ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmCsmTsmAsmAsdCsdCsdGsdAsdGsdCsdTsdGsdAsdTsmGsmGsmAsmCsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11088). A hydrophobic moiety, such as cholesterol, may also beattached to the ASO. A ligand that binds to receptors on the cellsurface, such as RGD to integrins, may also be attached to the ASO.Hydrophobic groups may be combined with cell-targeting ligands toincrease cellular uptake.

For periocular injection of Dex-Ac or vehicle, a 32-gauge needle with aHamilton glass microsyringe (25-μL volume; Hamilton Company, Reno, Nev.)is used. The lower eyelid is retracted, and the needle is insertedthrough the CF. Dex-Ac or vehicle suspension (20 μL) is injectedimmediately under the CF over the course of 10 to 15 seconds. The needleis then withdrawn. The procedure is performed on both eyes of eachanimal (each animal receives either Dex-Ac in both eyes or vehicle inboth eyes). Mice are treated with Dex-Ac or vehicle once per week untilthe end of the study.

For intracameral injections, a topical anesthetic (tetracainehydrochloride 0.5%, Bausch & Lomb) is applied to the eye. 10 ug of ASOor scrambled control in vehicle is injected using a 36G beveled needlemounted on a 10 μl microsyringe. An UltraMicroPump II (World precisioninstrument's UMP2 and UMC4) is used to precisely control the volume ofinjection. The needle is entered at the limbus and care is taken not totraumatize the iris or the lens. Mice with injury to iris or lens areexcluded from the study. As the needle is withdrawn after injection, acotton tip applicator is applied for about 1 minute to prevent aqueousreflux.

For intravitreal injection, a 33-gauge needle with a glass microsyringe(10-μL volume; Hamilton Company) is used. The eye is proptosed, and theneedle is inserted through the equatorial sclera and inserted into thevitreous chamber at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, taking care toavoid touching the posterior part of the lens or the retina. 10 ug ofASO or scrambled control in vehicle is injected into the vitreous overthe course of 1 minute. The needle is then left in place for a further30 seconds (to facilitate mixing), before being rapidly withdrawn.

The study length is 32 days. Oligonucleotide treatment (ASO or scrambledcontrols) occurs on days 0 and 14. Dex-Ac treatment occurs once weeklyon days 7, 14, 21 and 28 Animals are euthanized and tissues harvested onday 32.

IOP is measured on days 0, 14 and 28, just prior to any treatment. Micefrom each group are anaesthetized using intraperitoneal injection (0.1μl) of ketamine (100 mg/kg) and xylazine (9 mg/kg). One mouse isanaesthetized at a time and IOP is measured as soon as the mouse failsto respond to touch. All care is taken to ensure that the mice are in asimilar level of anesthesia when the IOP measurements are made. Tomeasure the IOP, a handheld tonometer (TonoLab, Colonial Medical Supply,Franconia, N.H.) is used.

Mice are euthanized on day 32. Both eyes from each animal will beharvested and dissected along the equator, and the anterior hemisphereplaced in RNAlater. Total RNA is extracted from homogenized tissue andreverse transcribed to cDNA using a First-Strand III cDNA Synthesis kit.Normalized cDNA quantification is carried out by real-time TaqMan PCRusing fluorescently labeled TaqMan probes/primers sets of selected genes(ANGPTL7, MYOC, COL1A1, COL5A1, VCAN, FN1, and PPIA). Reactions arecarried out in 20 μL aliquots using TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix NoAmpErase UNG ran on an ABI Prism 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System SequenceDetection System and analyzed by the 7500 System software. RelativeQuantification (RQ) values between treated and untreated samples arecalculated by the formula 2^(−ΔΔCT), where C_(T) is the cycle atthreshold (automatic measurement), ΔC_(T) is C_(T) of the assayed geneminus C_(T) of the endogenous control (PPIA), and ΔΔC_(T) is the ΔC_(T)of the normalized assayed gene in the treated sample minus the ΔC_(T) ofthe same gene in the untreated one (calibrator).

Example 11 siRNA or Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO)-Mediated Modulationof ANGPTL7 in a Mouse Model of Spontaneous Glaucoma

In this experiment, the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma is used toevaluate the effect of siRNA or ASO inhibition of ANGPTL7 on IOP. DBA/J2mice develop age related IOP increases and retinal nerve damagecharacteristic of human disease. DBA/2J mice normally demonstrate peakIOP elevation at 8 months of age.

Adult mice from inbred strains DBA/2J are obtained from the JacksonLaboratory (Bar Harbor, Me.). The animals are kept in environmentallycontrolled rooms under specific pathogen-free conditions (temperature,20-26° C.); humidity, 30-70%) with a 12-hour light-dark cycle for 2weeks before use. Food and water are available ad libitum. All animalsare used in accordance with animal care guidelines.

Experiments are performed on 6-month-old mice. Mice are divided into sixgroups. Group A (n=4) is an untreated control group. Group B (n=4) istreated with ANGPTL7 targeting siRNA via intraocular/intracameralinjection into the anterior chamber. Group C (n=4) is treated with anon-targeting control siRNA via intraocular injection into the anteriorchamber. Group D (n=4) is treated with ANGPTL7 targeting ASO viaintraocular injection into the anterior chamber. Group E (n=4) istreated with a non-targeting control ASO via intraocular injection intothe anterior chamber. Group F (n=4) is treated with vehicle.

The ANGPTL7 siRNA has the following sequence: sense strand 5′GUACAACUGCUGCACAGACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11089), antisense strand 5′GUCUGUGCAGCAGUUGUACUU 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11090). The non-targeting controlsiRNA has the following sequence: sense strand 5′ GUUGUACAGCAUGCGGAGAUU3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11091), antisense strand 5′ UCUCCGCAUGCUGUACAACUU 3′ (SEQID NO: 11092). Some preferred siRNA sequences may include any one ofETD00342 (sense strand 5′ CfsasAfaGfgUfGfGfcUfaCfuGfgUfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ IDNO: 11172, antisense strand 5′ usUfsaCfcAfgUfaGfccaCfcUfuUfgsusu 3′ SEQID NO: 11292), ETD00343 (sense strand 5′AfsasGfgUfgGfCfUfaCfuGfgUfaCfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11173, antisensestrand 5′ usUfsgUfaCfcAfgUfagcCfaCfcUfususu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11293),ETD00344 (sense strand 5′ GfsusGfgCfuAfCfUfgGfuAfcAfaCfuAfsusu 3′ SEQ IDNO: 11174, antisense strand 5′ usAfsgUfuGfuAfcCfaguAfgCfcAfcsusu 3′ SEQID NO: 11294), ETD00345 (sense strand 5′UfsgsGfuAfcAfAfCfuGfcUfgCfaCfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11175, antisensestrand 5′ usUfsgUfgCfaGfcAfguuGfuAfcCfasusu 3′ SEQ ID NO: 11295) orETD00346 (sense strand 5′ GfsusAfcAfaCfUfGfcUfgCfaCfaGfaAfsusu 3′ SEQ IDNO: 11176, antisense strand 5′ usUfscUfgUfgCfaGfcagUfuGfuAfcsusu 3′ SEQID NO: 11296). Some embodiments include any one of ETD00342, ETD00343,ETD00344, ETD00345, or ETD00346, but without the modification patternsof any of SEQ ID NOs: 11172-11176 or 11292-11296, or with differentmodifications or modification patterns than those SEQ ID NOs. Ahydrophobic moiety, such as cholesterol, may also be attached to thesiRNA. A ligand that binds to receptors on the cell surface, such as RGDto integrins, may also be attached to the siRNA. Hydrophobic groups maybe combined with cell-targeting ligands to increase cellular uptake.

The ANGPTL7 ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmTsmGsmTsmAsdCsdCsdAsdGsdTsdAsdGsdCsdCsdAsmCsmCsmTsmTsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11087). The non-targeting control ASO has the following sequence: 5′mTsmCsmTsmAsmAsdCsdCsdGsdAsdGsdCsdTsdGsdAsdTsmGsmGsmAsmCsmT 3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11088). A hydrophobic moiety, such as cholesterol, could also beattached to the ASO. A ligand that binds to receptors on the cellsurface, such as RGD to integrins, may also be attached to the ASO.Hydrophobic groups may be combined with cell-targeting ligands toincrease cellular uptake.

For intracameral injections, a topical anesthetic (tetracainehydrochloride 0.5%, Bausch & Lomb) is applied to the desired eye. lOugof siRNA or ASO in a lul of vehicle is injected using a 36G beveledneedle mounted on a l0μ1 microsyringe. An UltraMicroPump II (Worldprecision instrument's UMP2 and UMC4) is used to precisely control thevolume of injection. The needle is entered at the limbus and care istaken not to traumatize the iris or the lens. Mice with injury to irisor lens are excluded from the study. As the needle is withdrawn afterinjection, a cotton tip applicator is applied for about 1 minute toprevent aqueous reflux.

IOP is measured a day prior to injections, and also measured at two,four, six- and eight-weeks post-injection. Mice from each group areanaesthetized using intraperitoneal injection (0.1 μL) of ketamine (100mg/kg) and xylazine (9 mg/kg). One mouse is anaesthetized at a time andIOP is measured as soon as the mouse fails to respond to touch. All careis taken to ensure that the mice are in a similar level of anesthesiawhen the IOP measurements are made. To measure the IOP, a handheldtonometer (TonoLab, Colonial Medical Supply, Franconia, N.H.) is used.

Mice are euthanized after the final, eight-week IOP measurements.Trabecular meshwork tissue is dissected out of the enucleated eyes undera dissecting microscope and prepared for RNA extraction. Total RNA isreverse transcribed to cDNA using a First-Strand III cDNA Synthesis kit.Normalized cDNA quantification is carried out by real-time TaqMan PCRusing fluorescently labeled TaqMan probes/primers sets of selected genes(ANGPTL7, MYOC, COL1A1, COL5A1, VCAN, FN1, and PPIA). Reactions arecarried out in 20 μL aliquots using TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix NoAmpErase UNG ran on an ABI Prism 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System SequenceDetection System and analyzed by the 7500 System software. RelativeQuantification (RQ) values between treated and untreated samples arecalculated by the formula 2^(−ΔΔCT), where C_(T) is the cycle atthreshold (automatic measurement), ΔC_(T) is C_(T) of the assayed geneminus C_(T) of the endogenous control (PPIA), and ΔΔC_(T) is the ΔC_(T)of the normalized assayed gene in the treated sample minus the ΔC_(T) ofthe same gene in the untreated one (calibrator).

Example 12 Chemically Modified ANGPTL7 siRNAs

The siRNAs targeting ANGPTL7 can be synthesized with chemicalmodifications with the sense strand having the pattern 5′NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn 3′ (Modification pattern 1S, SEQ IDNO: 11381) and the antisense strand having the patternnsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn 3′ (Modification pattern lAS, SEQ IDNO: 11386). “N” can be any nucleoside (for example ribose, deoxyribose,or derivatives thereof), “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” isa 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioatelinkage. In addition, adenosine can be placed at position 19 in thesense strand and uridine at position 1 in the antisense strand. SomesiRNAs that may include these chemical modifications comprise sequencesof any of SEQ ID NOs: 11093-11376.

The siRNAs targeting ANGPTL7 can also be synthesized with chemicalmodifications with the sense strand having the pattern of modifications5′ nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn (SEQ ID NO: 11382) and antisense strandhaving the pattern of modifications 5′ nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11388). “N” can be any nucleoside (for example ribose,deoxyribose, or derivatives thereof), “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modifiednucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, and “s” is aphosphorothioate linkage. In addition, adenosine can be placed atposition 19 in the sense strand and uridine at position 1 in theantisense strand.

Example 13 Screening ANGPTL7 siRNAs for Activity in Human Cells inCulture

Chemically modified ANGPTL7 siRNAs cross reactive for human andnon-human primate and derived from sequences in siRNA subset C wereassayed for ANGPTL7 mRNA knockdown activity in cells in culture. ARPE-19(ATCC® CRL-2302™) cells were seeded in 96-well tissue culture plates ata cell density of 7,500 cells per well in DMEM:F12 (ATCC Catalog No.30-2006) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and incubatedovernight in a water-jacketed, humidified incubator at 37° C. in anatmosphere composed of air plus 5% carbon dioxide. The ANGPTL7 siRNAswere individually transfected into ARPE-19 cells in duplicate wells at10 nM final concentration using 0.3 μL Lipofectamine RNAiMax (Fisher)per well. Silencer Select Negative Control #1 (ThermoFisher, Catalog#4390843) was transfected at 10 nM final concentration as a control.After incubation for 48 hours at 37° C., total RNA was harvested fromeach well and cDNA prepared using TaqMan® Fast Advanced Cells-to-CT™ Kit(ThermoFisher, Catalog # A35374) according to the manufacturer'sinstructions. The level of ANGPTL7 mRNA from each well was measured intriplicate by real-time qPCR on an Applied Biosystems 7500 FastReal-Time PCR machine using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay for humanANGPTL7 (ThermoFisher, assay #Hs00221727_ml). The level of PPIA mRNA wasmeasured using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay (ThermoFisher, assay#Hs99999904_ml) and used to determine relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels ineach well using the delta-delta Ct method. All data were normalized torelative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels in untreated ARPE-19 cells. Results areshown in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Knockdown Activity of ANGPLT7-Specific siRNAs at 10 nM in HumanARPE-19 Cells Antisense Relative Sense Strand Strand ANGPTL7 siRNA name(SEQ ID NO) (SEQ ID NO) Expression Untreated Cells — — 1.00 NegativeControl siRNA — — 0.67 ETD00263 11093 11213 0.72 ETD00264 11094 112140.34 ETD00265 11095 11215 0.33 ETD00266 11096 11216 0.26 ETD00267 1109711217 0.24 ETD00268 11098 11218 0.29 ETD00269 11099 11219 0.18 ETD0027011100 11220 0.09 ETD00271 11101 11221 0.23 ETD00272 11102 11222 0.22ETD00273 11103 11223 0.19 ETD00274 11104 11224 0.09 ETD00275 11105 112250.14 ETD00276 11106 11226 0.18 ETD00277 11107 11227 0.77 ETD00278 1110811228 0.58 ETD00279 11109 11229 0.26 ETD00280 11110 11230 0.15 ETD0028111111 11231 1.64 ETD00282 11112 11232 0.95 ETD00283 11113 11233 0.29ETD00284 11114 11234 0.54 ETD00285 11115 11235 0.53 ETD00286 11116 112360.16 ETD00287 11117 11237 0.80 ETD00288 11118 11238 0.14 ETD00289 1111911239 0.22 ETD00290 11120 11240 0.60 ETD00291 11121 11241 0.20 ETD0029211122 11242 0.34 ETD00293 11123 11243 0.25 ETD00294 11124 11244 0.18ETD00295 11125 11245 0.07 ETD00296 11126 11246 0.06 ETD00297 11127 112470.16 ETD00298 11128 11248 0.14 ETD00299 11129 11249 0.33 ETD00300 1113011250 0.49 ETD00301 11131 11251 0.60 ETD00302 11132 11252 0.17 ETD0030311133 11253 0.37 ETD00304 11134 11254 0.27 ETD00305 11135 11255 0.36ETD00306 11136 11256 0.30 ETD00307 11137 11257 0.77 ETD00308 11138 112580.93 ETD00309 11139 11259 0.31 ETD00310 11140 11260 0.37 ETD00311 1114111261 0.84 ETD00312 11142 11262 1.69 ETD00313 11143 11263 0.13 ETD0031411144 11264 0.24 ETD00315 11145 11265 0.11 ETD00316 11146 11266 0.16ETD00317 11147 11267 0.14 ETD00318 11148 11268 0.21 ETD00319 11149 112690.27 ETD00320 11150 11270 0.11 ETD00321 11151 11271 0.14 ETD00322 1115211272 0.08 ETD00323 11153 11273 0.32 ETD00324 11154 11274 0.44 ETD0032511155 11275 0.17 ETD00326 11156 11276 0.18 ETD00327 11157 11277 0.34ETD00328 11158 11278 0.17 ETD00329 11159 11279 0.08 ETD00330 11160 112800.11 ETD00331 11161 11281 0.08 ETD00332 11162 11282 0.17 ETD00333 1116311283 0.31 ETD00334 11164 11284 0.41 ETD00335 11165 11285 0.06 ETD0033611166 11286 0.22 ETD00337 11167 11287 0.12 ETD00338 11168 11288 0.19ETD00339 11169 11289 0.17 ETD00340 11170 11290 0.18 ETD00341 11171 112910.13 ETD00342 11172 11292 0.13 ETD00343 11173 11293 0.32 ETD00344 1117411294 0.22 ETD00345 11175 11295 0.37 ETD00346 11176 11296 0.14 ETD0034711177 11297 0.20 ETD00348 11178 11298 0.20 ETD00349 11179 11299 0.65ETD00350 11180 11300 0.34 ETD00351 11181 11301 0.13 ETD00352 11182 113020.11 ETD00353 11183 11303 0.11 ETD00354 11184 11304 0.14 ETD00355 1118511305 0.13 ETD00356 11186 11306 0.10 ETD00357 11187 11307 0.38 ETD0035811188 11308 0.05 ETD00359 11189 11309 0.11 ETD00360 11190 11310 2.23ETD00361 11191 11311 0.42 ETD00362 11192 11312 0.61 ETD00363 11193 113130.48 ETD00364 11194 11314 0.65 ETD00365 11195 11315 0.24 ETD00366 1119611316 0.38 ETD00367 11197 11317 0.77 ETD00368 11198 11318 0.16 ETD0036911199 11319 0.11 ETD00370 11200 11320 0.43 ETD00371 11201 11321 0.35ETD00372 11202 11322 0.79 ETD00373 11203 11323 0.45 ETD00374 11204 113240.34 ETD00375 11205 11325 0.15 ETD00376 11206 11326 0.64 ETD00377 1120711327 0.29 ETD00378 11208 11328 0.17 ETD00379 11209 11329 0.56 ETD0038011210 11330 0.36 ETD00381 11211 11331 0.42 ETD00382 11212 11332 0.19 “—”untreated ARPE-19 cells; Negative Control siRNA, Silencer SelectNegative Control #1

A subset of the ANGPTL7 siRNA at were tested in a second screen foractivity at 1 nM concentration using ARPE-19 cells and the transfectionprocedures as described above. Results are shown in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Knockdown Activity of ANGPLT7-Specific siRNAs at 1 nM in HumanARPE-19 Cell Sense Strand Antisense Strand Relative ANGPTL7 siRNA name(SEQ ID NO) (SEQ ID NO) Expression Untreated Cells — — 1.00 NegativeControl — — 1.06 siRNA ETD00269 11100 11220 0.16 ETD00270 11143 112630.19 ETD00273 11161 11281 0.27 ETD00276 11183 11303 0.21 ETD00280 1118611306 0.28 ETD00286 11188 11308 0.43 ETD00291 11099 11219 0.47 ETD0029411103 11223 0.41 ETD00297 11106 11226 0.45 ETD00302 11110 11230 0.13ETD00313 11116 11236 0.34 ETD00316 11121 11241 0.31 ETD00318 11124 112440.42 ETD00325 11127 11247 0.50 ETD00326 11132 11252 0.67 ETD00328 1114611266 0.49 ETD00331 11148 11268 0.39 ETD00332 11155 11275 1.09 ETD0033811156 11276 0.96 ETD00339 11158 11278 0.27 ETD00340 11162 11282 0.31ETD00347 11168 11288 0.46 ETD00348 11169 11289 0.45 ETD00353 11170 112900.53 ETD00356 11177 11297 0.21 ETD00358 11178 11298 0.31 ETD00368 1119811318 0.48 ETD00375 11205 11325 0.44 ETD00378 11208 11328 0.51 ETD0038211212 11332 0.28 “—” untreated ARPE-19 cells; Negative Control siRNA,Silencer Select Negative Control #1

Example 14 Screening ANGPTL7 siRNAs for Activity in Mouse Cells inCulture

It can be advantageous to possess ANGPTL7 siRNAs that are cross-reactivefor human and rodent species. Chemically modified ANGPTL7 siRNAs derivedfrom those that are predicted to be cross-reactive for human and mouseANGPTL7 were assayed for ANGPTL7 mRNA knockdown activity in mouse cellsin culture. C166 (ATCC® CRL-2581™) cells were seeded in 96-well tissueculture plates at a cell density of 10,000 cells per well in DMEMsupplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and incubated overnight in awater-jacketed, humidified incubator at 37° C. in an atmosphere composedof air plus 5% carbon dioxide. The ANGPTL7 siRNAs were individuallytransfected into C166 cells in duplicate wells at 1 nM and 10 nM finalconcentration using 0.3 μL Lipofectamine RNAiMax (Fisher) per well.Silencer Select Negative Control #1 (ThermoFisher, Catalog #4390843) wastransfected at 10 nM final concentration as a control. After incubationfor 48 hours at 37° C., total RNA was harvested from each well and cDNAprepared using TaqMan® Fast Advanced Cells-to-CT™ Kit (ThermoFisher,Catalog #A35374) according to the manufacturer's instructions. The levelof ANGPTL7 mRNA from each well was measured in triplicate by real-timeqPCR on an Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR machine usingTaqMan Gene Expression Assay for mouse ANGPTL7 (ThermoFisher, assay#Mm00480431_ml). The level of PPIA mRNA was measured using TaqMan GeneExpression Assay (ThermoFisher, assay #Mm02342430_gl) and used todetermine relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels in each well using thedelta-delta Ct method. All data were normalized to relative ANGPTL7 mRNAlevels in untreated C166 cells. Results are shown in Table 7. In someembodiments, an oligonucleotide such as an siRNA described herein, thattargets human ANGPTL7 is cross-reactive with human, NHP, mouse, rat,and/or dog ANGPTL7 (e.g. any one of ETD00342-ETD00346, or a versionthereof with different sequence modifications, or without sequencemodifications).

TABLE 7 Knockdown Activity of ANGPLT7-Specific siRNAs at 1 nM and 10 nMin Mouse C166 cells Relative ANGPTL7 Antisense Expression Sense StrandStrand 1 nM 10 nM siRNA name (SEQ ID NO) (SEQ ID NO) siRNA siRNAUntreated Cells — — 1.00 — Negative Control — — 0.66 — siRNA ETD0024111333 11355 1.04 0.92 ETD00242 11334 11356 0.71 0.78 ETD00243 1133511357 0.85 0.83 ETD00244 11336 11358 0.54 0.79 ETD00245 11337 11359 0.430.71 ETD00246 11338 11360 0.59 0.83 ETD00247 11339 11361 0.35 0.76ETD00248 11340 11362 0.93 0.90 ETD00249 11341 11363 0.67 0.90 ETD0025011342 11364 0.77 0.89 ETD00251 11343 11365 0.52 0.82 ETD00252 1134411366 0.44 0.77 ETD00253 11345 11367 0.82 0.81 ETD00254 11346 11368 0.940.87 ETD00255 11347 11369 0.76 0.83 ETD00256 11348 11370 0.89 0.91ETD00257 11349 11371 0.52 0.92 ETD00258 11350 11372 0.89 0.94 ETD0025911351 11373 0.70 0.91 ETD00260 11352 11374 0.52 0.92 ETD00261 1135311375 0.55 0.89 ETD00262 11354 11376 0.78 0.95 “—” untreated C166 cells;Negative Control siRNA, Silencer Select Negative Control #1

Example 15 Determining the IC50 of ANGPTL7 siRNAs in Human ARPE-19 Cells

The IC50 values for knockdown of ANGPTL7 mRNA by select ANGPTL7 siRNAswere determined in ARPE-19 cells. The ETD00269, ETD00270, ETD00353,ETD00356, ETD00358, ETD00370, ETD00377, ETD00378 and ETD00382 siRNAswere assayed individually at 3 nM, 1 nM, 0.3 nM, 0.1 nM and 0.03 nM. Asubset of siRNAs was also assayed at 0.01 nM. The ARPE-19 (ATCC®CRL-2302™) cells were seeded in 96-well tissue culture plates at a celldensity of 7,500 cells per well in DMEM supplemented with 10% fetalbovine serum and incubated overnight in a water-jacketed, humidifiedincubator at 37° C. in an atmosphere composed of air plus 5% carbondioxide. The ANGPTL7 siRNAs were individually transfected into ARPE-19cells in triplicate wells using 0.3 μL Lipofectamine RNAiMax (Fisher)per well. Silencer Select Negative Control #1 (ThermoFisher, Catalog#4390843) was transfected at 0.03 and 3 nM final concentration as acontrol. After incubation for 48 hours at 37° C., total RNA washarvested from each well and cDNA prepared using TaqMan® Fast AdvancedCells-to-CT™ Kit (ThermoFisher, Catalog #A35374) according to themanufacturer's instructions. The level of ANGPTL7 mRNA from each wellwas measured in triplicate by real-time qPCR on an Applied Biosystems7500 Fast Real-Time PCR machine using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay forhuman ANGPTL7 (ThermoFisher, assay #Hs00221727_ml). The level of PPIAmRNA was measured using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay (ThermoFisher,assay #Hs99999904_ml) and used to determine relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levelsin each well using the delta-delta Ct method. All data were normalizedto relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels in untreated ARPE-19 cells. Curve fitwas accomplish using the [inhibitor] vs. response (three parameters)function in GraphPad Prism software. Results are shown in Table 8, Table9, and Table 10.

TABLE 8 IC50 Values of ETD00269, ETD00270, ETD00358 and ETD00382 ANGPTL7siRNAs Relative ANGPTL7 siRNA [siRNA] mRNA Levels IC50 — — 1.000 NDNegative Control siRNA   3 nM 0.713 ND 0.03 nM 0.712 ND ETD00269   3 nM0.156 0.23   1 nM 0.649  0.3 nM 0.849  0.1 nM 1.469 0.03 nM 1.808ETD00270   3 nM 0.305 0.044   1 nM 0.445  0.3 nM 0.225  0.1 nM 0.7200.03 nM 0.907 ETD00358   3 nM 0.129 0.15   1 nM 0.140  0.3 nM 0.553  0.1nM 0.936 0.03 nM 1.292 ETD00382   3 nM 0.316 0.28   1 nM 0.492  0.3 nM0.229  0.1 nM 0.205 0.03 nM 0.206

TABLE 9 IC50 Values of ETD00353 and ETD00356 ANGPTL7 siRNAs RelativeANGPTL7 siRNA [siRNA] mRNA Levels IC50 — — 1.000 ND Negative ControlsiRNA   3 nM 1.487 ND 0.03 nM 0.188 ND ETD00353   3 nM 0.383 1.52   1 nM0.772  0.3 nM 1.140  0.1 nM 1.423 0.03 nM 1.257 0.01 nM 1.424 ETD00356  3 nM 0.107 0.12   1 nM 0.152  0.3 nM 0.294  0.1 nM 0.712 0.03 nM 0.7930.01 nM 1.073

TABLE 10 IC50 Values of ETD00370, ETD00377 and ETD00378 ANGPTL7 siRNAsRelative ANGPTL7 siRNA [siRNA] mRNA Levels IC50 — — 1.000 ND NegativeControl siRNA 0.03 nM 1.951 ND   3 nM 1.579 ND ETD00370   3 nM 0.2510.49   1 nM 0.589  0.3 nM 0.990  0.1 nM 1.736 0.03 nM 1.566 ETD00377   3nM 0.358 2.64   1 nM 0.462  0.3 nM 0.476  0.1 nM 0.548 0.03 nM 1.361ETD00378   3 nM 0.281 0.17   1 nM 0.575  0.3 nM 1.037  0.1 nM 1.570 0.03nM 1.816

Example 16 Assessing the Extent of Nuclease Resistance of ANGPTL7 siRNAs

Resistance of select ANGPTL7 siRNAs to nuclease digestion was assessedby incubating the siRNAs in rat liver tritosomes. Each siRNA (7 ng/μLfinal concentration) was placed into a PCR tube containing a cocktailprepared on ice containing 1× catabolic buffer (Xenotech, Catalog#K5200, Lot #18-1-0698), 0.5× rat tritosomes (Xenotech, Catalog#R0610.LT, Lot #1610405), 0.1U/μL porcine intestinal heparin (Zageno,Catalog #H3149-10KU). An aliquot was removed, an equal volume of 50 mMEDTA was added, and the sample placed at −80° C. This sample wasdesignated as the 0 hr timepoint. The remainder of the reaction wasplaced in an Eppendorf Mastercycler Gradient and incubated at 37° C.After incubation for 4 and 24 hours, an aliquot was removed from thereaction and stopped by addition of an equal volume of 50 mM EDTA andplaced at −80° C. until analysis by gel electrophoresis. All sampleswere then thawed on ice and 6× DNA Gel Loading Dye (ThermoFisher Catalog#R0611) was added to lx final concentration. 20 μL of each sample wasloaded onto a 20% polyacrylamide TBE gel (ThermoFisher, Catalog#EC63155BOX). Electrophoresis was carried out at a constant 100V for 75minutes in an XCell SureLock Mini-Cell Electrophoresis System(ThermoFisher) using 1× TBE (Tris/boric/EDTA) (Fisher, Catalog #FERB52)as the tank buffer. The siRNA was visualized by staining the gel with a1:10,000 dilution of SYBR Gold (ThermoFisher, Catalog #S-11494) in TBEfor 15 minutes at room temperature with rocking. The gel was washed with1× TBE for 15 minutes and then placed on a FotoPrep1 UV transilluminator(Fotodyne). The gel was imaged using the camera app set on MONO on aniPhone 6s with a yellow gel filter (Neewer) placed over the lens. Bandintensity was measured using NIH ImageJ using the “Analyze: Gels”function. The remaining siRNA percent was normalized to the valueobtained at the 0 hr timepoint for that siRNA. Results are shown inTable 11. By using this assay, we were able to determine that somesiRNAs are more resistant to nuclease digestion with more remainingintact over time compared with other siRNAs with the same modificationpattern.

TABLE 11 Resistance of ANGPTL7 siRNAs to Nucleases Present in Rat LiverTritosomes siRNA Timepoint (hr) % remaining ETD00269 0 100% 4 109% 24 69% ETD00270 0 100% 4  69% 24  47% ETD00276 0 100% 4 103% 24  78%ETD00302 0 100% 4  68% 24  26% ETD00353 0 100% 4  75% 24  34% ETD00356 0100% 4  66% 24  29% ETD00358 0 100% 4  89% 24  48% ETD00382 0 100% 4126% 24  64% ETD00370 0 100% 4  97% 24  55% ETD00374 0 100% 4  54% 24 2% ETD00377 0 100% 4  92% 24  49% ETD00378 0 100% 4  87% 24  55%ETD00381 0 100% 4  54% 24  5%

Example 17 siRNA-Mediated Knockdown of ANGPTL7 Expression in PrimaryHuman Trabecular Meshwork Cells in the Presence of Dexamethasone

In this experiment, primary human trabecular meshwork cells exposed todexamethasone were treated with a siRNA targeting ANGPTL7. Primary HTMcells (Cell Applications Catalog# 634-05a) were grown to confluency inhigh-glucose DMEM (Cytiva cat #SH30243.01) supplemented with 10% FBS(Gemini Bio Catalog# 900-108) in a water-jacketed, humidified incubatorat 37° C. in an atmosphere composed of air plus 5% carbon dioxide. Thecells were harvested with Trypsin/EDTA (PromoCell Catalog #C-41010),resuspended in DMEM +10% FBS at a cell density of 200,000 cells/mL, thenseeded in 24-well tissue culture plates at 20,000 cells/well. Once thecells reached 80% confluency, the media was replaced and cells wereserum starved in DMEM for 24 hrs in a water-jacketed, humidifiedincubator at 37° C. in an atmosphere composed of air plus 5% carbondioxide. Next, 5 uL of dexamethasone (Sigma Catalog #D4902-100 MG)prepared at 50 uM was added to the wells to give a final concentrationof 500 nM and the plates incubated an additional 24 hours. This wasdesignated Day 0. On Day 1, the media was replaced with 0.5 mL DMEM, 0.5mL DMEM containing 1 uM negative control siRNA (Accell Non-targetingControl siRNA #2, Dharmacon Catalog #D-001910-02-20) or 0.5 mL DMEMcontaining 1 uM ETD00752 targeting ANGPTL7. The ANGPTL7 siRNA ETD00752has a TEG-cholesterol moiety attached to the 3′ end of the sense strandand is derived from ETD00356. ETD00752 includes the following sequences:sense strand 5′ AfsusAfuGfuAfCfCfaAfgGfaUfgUfuAfsusu[Chol-TEG] 3′ (SEQID NO: 11377), antisense strand 5′ usAfsaCfaUfcCfuUfgguAfcAfuAfususu 3′(SEQ ID NO: 11306). On Day 2, Day 4 and Day 6, 5 uL of 50 uMdexamethasone was added to all wells. On Day 3 and Day 5, media wasreplaced with 0.5 mL of fresh DMEM, 0.5 mL fresh DMEM containing 1 uMnegative control siRNA (Accell Non-targeting Control siRNA #2, Dharmacon#D-001910-02-20) or 0.5 mL fresh DMEM containing 1 uM ETD00752 targetingANGPTL7 in the appropriate wells. Controls also included cells that didnot receive siRNA or dexamethsone.

On Day 8, media was collected for quantitation of ANGPTL7 protein byELISA (RayBio® Human ANGPTL7 ELISA Kit Catalog# ELH-ANGPTL7-1) accordingto the manufacturer's instructions. Total RNA was harvested from thecells and cDNA prepared using TaqMan® Fast Advanced Cells-to-CT™ Kit(ThermoFisher, Catalog #A35374) according to the manufacturer'sinstructions. The level of ANGPTL7 mRNA from cells in each well wasmeasured in triplicate by real-time qPCR on an Applied Biosystems 7500Fast Real-Time PCR machine using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay for humanANGPTL7 (ThermoFisher, assay #Hs00221727_ml). The level of PPIA mRNA wasmeasured using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay (ThermoFisher, assay#Hs99999904_ml) and used to determine relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels fromcells in each well using the delta-delta Ct method. All data werenormalized to relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels in cells treated withdexamethasone alone. Results are shown in Table 12. Results indicateprimary HTM cells treated with dexamethasone have much higher levels ofANGPTL7 mRNA and ANGPTL7 protein than cells that have not been treatedwith dexamethasone. In addition, primary HTM cells exposed todexamethasone and treated with ETD00752 had much lower levels of ANGPTL7mRNA and ANGPTL7 protein than cells that had not been treated withETD00752 or had been treated with the Accell Non-targeting Control siRNA#2.

TABLE 12 Induction of ANGPTL7 Expression by Dexamethasone and Knockdownof ANGPTL7 expression by ETD00752 in Primary HTM Cells Relative ANGPTL7ANGPTL7 siRNA name mRNA Protein (ng/uL) Cells with dexamethasone 1.0015.7 Accell Non-targeting Control 0.44 8.1 siRNA #2 ETD00752 0.021 1.6Cells without dexamethasone 0.027 1.9

Example 18 siRNA-Mediated Knockdown of ANGPTL7 Expression in a 3D InVitro Model of Glaucoma

In the human eye, homeostatic intraocular pressure (IOP) is maintainedby formation and drainage of the aqueous humor, primarily through thehuman trabecular meshwork (HTM). Approximately, 70-90% of the aqueoushumor is drained through this tissue and it is believed that a decreasein outflow through the TM leads to elevated IOP. An in vitro 3D HTMmodel (3D-HTM™) that recapitulates the biological and physiologicalcharacteristics of the HTM has been established by the contract researchorganization Glauconix. The following study was performed using 3D-HTM™in order to provide proof of concept of siRNA-mediated knockdown ofANGPTL7 in an in vitro model system of glaucoma.

The 3D-HTM™ constructs were cultured in 10% FBS-IMEM using primary donortrabecular meshwork cells over a two-week period. Once the 3D-HTM™constructs were ready, they were placed in 6.7% FBS-IMEM for 24 h priorto the treatments. Treatments included the following: On Day 0, mediawas replaced with fresh 6.7% FBS medium containing 500 nM dexamethasone.On Day 3, the media was replaced with fresh 6.7% FBS medium containing500 nM dexamethasone. On Day 4, the media was replaced with fresh 6.7%FBS medium without dexamethasone and transfected with siRNA. The siRNAsused in this study were ETD00153, ETD00353 and ETD00356. ETD00153 is ansiRNA that does not target ANGPTL7 and functioned as a negative controlsiRNA. ETD00153 has the following sequences: sense strand 5′UfsgsUfgGfcCfCfGfcAfcGfgGfgCfaAfsusu 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11378), antisensestrand 5′ usUfsgCfcCfcGfuGfcggGfcCfaCfasusu 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11379).ETD00353 and ETD00356 are siRNAs that target ANGPTL7. ETD00353 has thefollowing sequences: sense strand 5′CfsasUfgGfaUfCfUfaCfcUfaCfuCfcAfsusu 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11183), antisensestrand 5′ usGfsgAfgUfaGfgUfagaUfcCfaUfgsusu 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11303).ETD00356 has the following sequences: sense strand 5′AfsusAfuGfuAfCfCfaAfgGfaUfgUfuAfsusu 3′ (SEQ ID NO:11186), antisensestrand 5′ usAfsaCfaUfcCfuUfgguAfcAfuAfususu 3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11306).Transfection was accomplished using Targefect-RAW (Targeting Systems,Catalog # RAW-01). Transfection complexes were prepared on ice. First,100 nM siRNA from 100 μM stock was added to 4.5 g/L DMEM withoutantibiotics and the tubes were flicked 12 times to accomplish mixing.Next, a volume of targetfect that was 1/50^(th) of the total volume ofthe mixture was added to the diluted siRNA and the tubes were flicked 12times to accomplish mixing. To this a volume of the virofect enhancerreagent that was 1/25^(th) of the total volume of the mixture was added.The tubes were flicked 12 times to accomplish mixing. The mixture wasthen incubated at 37° C. for 25 minutes to allow the formation of thetransfection complexes. Complete medium (10% pFBS DMEM with antibiotics)was then added to the transfection complexes at double the volume of thecomplex. For example, if the volume of the complexes was 0.5 mL, 1 mL ofcomplete medium was added. Next, 225 μL of the complex plus completemedium mixture was added to the appropriate wells. On Day 5,dexamethasone was added to 500 nM without changing the media. On Day 6,the media was replaced with fresh media containing 6.7% FBS withoutdexamethasone and the wells receiving siRNA were transfected a secondtime using the protocol for the first transfection described above. OnDay 7, dexamethasone was added to 500 nM without changing the media.

On Day 8, Total RNA was harvested from the cells using the RNAeasy PlusMini kit (Qiagen, Catalog #74134) according to the manufacturer'sinstructions. The cDNA was prepared from 500 ng of total RNA using theMaxima first strand synthesis kit (ThermoFisher Catalog #K1642)according to the manufacturer's instructions. The level of ANGPTL7 mRNAfrom cells in each well was measured in triplicate by real-time qPCR onan Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR machine using TaqMan GeneExpression Assay for human ANGPTL7 (ThermoFisher, assay #Hs00221727 ml).The level of PPIA mRNA was measured using TaqMan Gene Expression Assay(ThermoFisher, assay #Hs99999904_ml) and used to determine relativeANGPTL7 mRNA levels from cells in each well using the delta-delta Ctmethod. All data were normalized to relative ANGPTL7 mRNA levels incells treated with dexamethasone alone. Results are shown in Table 13.Results indicate 3D-HTM™ cells exposed to dexamethasone and transfectedwith siRNAs ETD00353 or ETD00356 had much lower levels of ANGPTL7 mRNAthan 3D-HTM™ cells not receiving siRNA or those that had beentransfected with the negative control siRNA ETD00153.

TABLE 13 siRNA-mediated Knockdown of ANGPTL7 expression in 3D-HTMTMcells siRNA name Relative ANGPTL7 mRNA 3D-HTM ™ cells with dexamethasone1.00 ETD00153 0.95 ETD00353 0.54 ETD00356 0.31

SEQUENCE INFORMATION

Some embodiments include one or more nucleic acid sequences from thenon-limiting examples in the following table:

TABLE 14 Sequences SEQ ID NO: Description   1-4412 ANGPTL7 siRNAoligonucleotide sequences  4413-11084 ANGPTL7 antisense oligonucleotidesequences 11085 Full-length ANGPTL7 human mRNA (GenBank Acc. #NM_021146.4) 11086 Full-length ANGPTL7 human pre-mRNA (NC_000001.11(11189289..11195981) 11087 Antisense oligonucleotide targeting ANGPTL7(e.g. human, NHP, mouse, rat, dog) 11088 Non-targeting control antisenseoligonucleotide 11089 Sense strand oligonucleotide targeting ANGPTL7(e.g. human, NHP, mouse, rat, dog) 11090 Antisense strandoligonucleotide targeting ANGPTL7 (e.g. human, NHP, mouse, rat, dog)11091 Sense strand non-targeting (control) oligonucleotide 11092Antisense strand non-targeting (control) oligonucleotide 11093-11332Modified human ANGPT7 siRNA sequences 11333-11376 Modified human ANGPT7siRNA sequences that are cross-reactive with mouse 11377 ETD00752 sensestrand 11378 ETD00153 sense strand 11379 ETD00153 antisense strand 11380ASO modification pattern 11381 Modification pattern 1S 11382Modification pattern 2S 11383 Modification pattern 3S 11384 Modificationpattern 4S 11385 Modification pattern 5S 11386 Modification pattern 1AS11387 Modification pattern 2AS 11388 Modification pattern 3AS 11389Modification pattern 4AS 11390-11393 Peptide moieties

We claim:
 1. A composition comprising an oligonucleotide that targetsAngiopoietin like 7 (ANGPTL7) and when administered to a subject in aneffective amount decreases intraocular pressure, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises a small interfering RNA (siRNA) comprising asense strand and an antisense strand, the antisense strand beingcomplementary to a portion of a nucleic acid having the nucleosidesequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085, and each strand having 14 to 30nucleotides.
 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the intraocularpressure is decreased by about 10% or more, as compared to prior toadministration.
 3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the siRNA bindswith a human ANGPTL7 mRNA with no more than 2 mismatches in theantisense strand.
 4. The composition of claim 1, wherein the siRNA bindswith a human ANGPTL7 mRNA target site that does not harbor an SNP, witha minor allele frequency (MAF) greater or equal to 1% (pos. 2-18). 5.The composition of claim 1, wherein the sense strand and the antisensestrand each comprise a seed region that is not identical to a seedregion of a human miRNA.
 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein thesense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identical toany one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or
 2192. 7. The composition ofclaim 1, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or 2192, or a sense strandsequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, ordeletions.
 8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93,94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743,923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201,1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693,1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091,2095, 2099, or
 2192. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein theantisense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identicalto any one of SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324,2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149,3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631,3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970,3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305,or
 4398. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antisense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298,2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863,2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313,3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845,3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236,4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398, or an antisense strand sequencethereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.11. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antisense strand comprisesthe nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299,2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946,2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338,3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860,3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291,4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or
 4398. 12. The composition of claim 1, whereinthe oligonucleotide comprises one or more modified intemucleosidelinkages.
 13. The composition of claim 12, wherein the one or moremodified internucleoside linkages comprise alkylphosphonate,phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate, phosphorodithioate,alkylphosphonothioate, phosphoramidate, carbamate, carbonate, phosphatetriester, acetamidate, or carboxymethyl ester, or a combination thereof.14. The composition of claim 12, wherein the one or more modifiedinternucleoside linkages comprise a phosphorothioate linkage.
 15. Thecomposition of claim 12, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises 2-6modified internucleoside linkages.
 16. The composition of claim 1,wherein the oligonucleotide comprises one or more modified nucleosides.17. The composition of claim 16, wherein the one or more modifiednucleosides comprise a locked nucleic acid (LNA), hexitol nucleic acid(HLA), cyclohexene nucleic acid (CeNA), a 2′,4′ constrained ethyl, 2′-methoxyethyl, 2′-O-alkyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-fluoro, or2′-deoxy, a 2′-O-methyl nucleoside, 2′-deoxyfluoro nucleoside,2′-O—N-methylacetamido (2′-O-NMA) nucleoside, a2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl (2′-O-DMAEOE) nucleoside, 2′-O-aminopropyl(2′-O—AP) nucleoside, 2′-ara-F, or a combination thereof.
 18. Thecomposition of claim 16, wherein the one or more modified nucleosidescomprise a 2′ fluoro modified nucleoside.
 19. The composition of claim16, wherein the one or more modified nucleosides comprise a 2′ O-methylmodified nucleoside.
 20. The composition of claim 16, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises 15-23 modified nucleosides.
 21. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises a lipidattached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide.
 22. Thecomposition of claim 21, wherein the lipid comprises cholesterol,myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, lithocholoyl, docosanoyl,docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl, or a-tocopherol, or acombination thereof.
 23. The composition of claim 21, wherein the lipidcomprises cholesterol.
 24. The composition of claim 1, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)peptide attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide.
 25. Thecomposition of claim 24, wherein the RGD peptide comprisesCyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), an amino benzoic acid derived RGD, or acombination thereof.
 26. The composition of claim 1, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises an RGD peptide and a lipid attached at a 3′ or5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide.
 27. The composition of claim 1,wherein the sense strand comprises modification pattern 1S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11381),modification pattern 2S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO:11382), modification pattern 3S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfnNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQID NO: 11383), modification pattern 4S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11384), ormodification pattern 5S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQID NO: 11385); wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, andN comprises a nucleoside.
 28. The composition of claim 1, wherein theantisense strand comprises modification pattern 1AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11386), modificationpattern 2AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnNfNfnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11387),modification pattern 3AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11388), or modification pattern 4AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11389); wherein “Nf” isa 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage.
 29. The compositionof claim 1, wherein the sense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence atleast 85% identical the sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any ofTables 5-13.
 30. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sense strandcomprises the sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13.31. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sense strand comprises thenucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096,11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106,11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124,11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135,11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149,11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159,11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169,11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180,11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191,11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205,11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212, ora sense strand sequence thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.
 32. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the sense strand comprises thenucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096,11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106,11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124,11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135,11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149,11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159,11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169,11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180,11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191,11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205,11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or
 11212. 33. The composition of claim 1,wherein the antisense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least85% identical the antisense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables5-13.
 34. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antisense strandcomprises the antisense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables5-13.
 35. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antisense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11214,11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222, 11223, 11224,11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239, 11241, 11242,11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250, 11252, 11253,11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265, 11266, 11267,11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275, 11276, 11277,11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285, 11286, 11287,11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295, 11296, 11297,11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306, 11307, 11308,11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320, 11321, 11323,11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or 11332, or an antisensestrand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions.
 36. The composition of claim 1, wherein theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222,11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233, 11236, 11238, 11239,11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249, 11250,11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260, 11263, 11264, 11265,11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272, 11273, 11274, 11275,11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282, 11283, 11284, 11285,11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292, 11293, 11294, 11295,11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303, 11304, 11305, 11306,11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316, 11318, 11319, 11320,11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330, 11331, or
 11332. 37.The composition of claim 1, wherein the sense strand or the antisensestrand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least 2 nucleosides.
 38. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the composition is a pharmaceuticalcomposition.
 39. The composition of claim 38, wherein the composition issterile.
 40. The composition of claim 38, further comprising apharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 41. The composition of claim 40,wherein the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprises water, abuffer, or a saline solution.
 42. A method of treating an oculardisorder in a subject in need thereof, the method comprisingadministering to the subject a composition comprising an oligonucleotidethat targets ANGPTL7 wherein the oligonucleotide comprises a smallinterfering RNA (siRNA) comprising a sense strand and an antisensestrand, the antisense strand being complementary to a portion of anucleic acid having the nucleoside sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11085, andeach strand having 14 to 30 nucleotides.
 43. The method of claim 42,wherein the ocular disorder comprises a glaucoma.
 44. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the composition decreases intraocular pressure in aneye of the subject relative to a baseline intraocular pressuremeasurement obtained from the subject prior to administering thecomposition to the subject.
 45. The method of claim 44, wherein thecomposition decreases intraocular pressure in the eye of the subject byat least 10% relative to the baseline intraocular pressure measurementobtained from the subject prior to administering the composition. 46.The method of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises a nucleosidesequence at least 85% identical to any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94,115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923,943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424,1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762,1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095,2099, or
 2192. 47. The method of claim 42, wherein the sense strandcomprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93,94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256, 645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743,923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097, 1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201,1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537, 1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693,1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968, 1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091,2095, 2099, or 2192, or a sense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.
 48. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence ofany one of SEQ ID NOS: 7, 92, 93, 94, 115, 117, 118, 120, 206, 207, 256,645, 646, 657, 740, 741, 743, 923, 943, 948, 1021, 1092, 1094, 1097,1105, 1107, 1132, 1198, 1201, 1424, 1425, 1429, 1434, 1436, 1438, 1537,1541, 1639, 1654, 1691, 1693, 1762, 1764, 1765, 1794, 1796, 1797, 1968,1969, 2030, 2085, 2087, 2091, 2095, 2099, or
 2192. 49. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the antisense strand comprises a nucleoside sequenceat least 85% identical to any one of SEQ ID NOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300,2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462, 2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947,2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300, 3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404,3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644, 3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897,3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003, 4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293,4297, 4301, 4305, or
 4398. 50. The method of claim 42, wherein theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462,2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300,3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644,3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003,4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or 4398, or an antisensestrand sequence thereof having 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions,additions, or deletions.
 51. The method of claim 42, wherein theantisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ IDNOS: 2213, 2298, 2299, 2300, 2321, 2323, 2324, 2326, 2412, 2413, 2462,2851, 2852, 2863, 2946, 2947, 2949, 3129, 3149, 3154, 3227, 3298, 3300,3303, 3311, 3313, 3338, 3404, 3407, 3630, 3631, 3635, 3640, 3642, 3644,3743, 3747, 3845, 3860, 3897, 3899, 3968, 3970, 3971, 4000, 4002, 4003,4174, 4175, 4236, 4291, 4293, 4297, 4301, 4305, or
 4398. 52. The methodof claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises modification pattern 1S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11381),modification pattern 2S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO:11382), modification pattern 3S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfnNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQID NO: 11383), modification pattern 4S:5′-NfsnsNfnNfnNfNfNfnNfnNfnNfnNfnNfsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11384), ormodification pattern 5S: 5′-nsnsnnNfnNfNfNfnnnnnnnnnnsnsnN-Lipid-3′ (SEQID NO: 11385); wherein “Nf” is a 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a2′ O-methyl modified nucleoside, “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage, andN comprises a nucleoside.
 53. The method of claim 42, wherein theantisense strand comprises modification pattern lAS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnNfnNfnnnNfnNfnNfnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11386), modificationpattern 2AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnNfNfnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11387),modification pattern 3AS: 5′-nsNfsnnnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ IDNO: 11388), or modification pattern 4AS:5′-nsNfsnNfnNfnnnnnnnNfnNfnnnsnsn-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 11389); wherein “Nf” isa 2′ fluoro-modified nucleoside, “n” is a 2′ O-methyl modifiednucleoside, and “s” is a phosphorothioate linkage.
 54. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence atleast 85% identical the sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any ofTables 5-13.
 55. The method of claim 42, wherein the sense strandcomprises the sense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13.56. The method of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises thenucleoside sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096,11097, 11098, 11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106,11109, 11110, 11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124,11125, 11126, 11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135,11136, 11139, 11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149,11150, 11151, 11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159,11160, 11161, 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169,11170, 11171, 11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180,11181, 11182, 11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191,11193, 11195, 11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205,11207, 11208, 11210, 11211, or 11212, ora sense strand sequence thereofhaving 1 or 2 nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.
 57. Themethod of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleosidesequence of any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11094, 11095, 11096, 11097, 11098,11099, 11100, 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106, 11109, 11110,11113, 11116, 11118, 11119, 11121, 11122, 11123, 11124, 11125, 11126,11127, 11128, 11129, 11130, 11132, 11133, 11134, 11135, 11136, 11139,11140, 11143, 11144, 11145, 11146, 11147, 11148, 11149, 11150, 11151,11152, 11153, 11154, 11155, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161,11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 11167, 11168, 11169, 11170, 11171,11172, 11173, 11174, 11175, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11180, 11181, 11182,11183, 11184, 11185, 11186, 11187, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11193, 11195,11196, 11198, 11199, 11200, 11201, 11203, 11204, 11205, 11207, 11208,11210, 11211, or
 11212. 58. The method of claim 42, wherein theantisense strand comprises a nucleoside sequence at least 85% identicalthe antisense strand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13.
 59. Themethod of claim 42, wherein the antisense strand comprises the antisensestrand sequence of an siRNA in any of Tables 5-13.
 60. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the antisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequenceof any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219,11220, 11221, 11222, 11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233,11236, 11238, 11239, 11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247,11248, 11249, 11250, 11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260,11263, 11264, 11265, 11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272,11273, 11274, 11275, 11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282,11283, 11284, 11285, 11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292,11293, 11294, 11295, 11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303,11304, 11305, 11306, 11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316,11318, 11319, 11320, 11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330,11331, or 11332, or an antisense strand sequence thereof having 1 or 2nucleoside substitutions, additions, or deletions.
 61. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the antisense strand comprises the nucleoside sequenceof any one of SEQ ID NOS: 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219,11220, 11221, 11222, 11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11229, 11230, 11233,11236, 11238, 11239, 11241, 11242, 11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247,11248, 11249, 11250, 11252, 11253, 11254, 11255, 11256, 11259, 11260,11263, 11264, 11265, 11266, 11267, 11268, 11269, 11270, 11271, 11272,11273, 11274, 11275, 11276, 11277, 11278, 11279, 11280, 11281, 11282,11283, 11284, 11285, 11286, 11287, 11288, 11289, 11290, 11291, 11292,11293, 11294, 11295, 11296, 11297, 11298, 11300, 11301, 11302, 11303,11304, 11305, 11306, 11307, 11308, 11309, 11311, 11313, 11315, 11316,11318, 11319, 11320, 11321, 11323, 11324, 11325, 11327, 11328, 11330,11331, or
 11332. 62. The method of claim 42, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprises a lipid attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of theoligonucleotide.
 63. The method of claim 62, wherein the lipid comprisescholesterol, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, lithocholoyl, docosanoyl,docosahexaenoyl, myristyl, palmityl stearyl, or a-tocopherol, or acombination thereof.
 64. The method of claim 63, wherein the lipidcomprises cholesterol.
 65. The method of claim 42, wherein theoligonucleotide comprises an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)peptide attached at a 3′ or 5′ terminus of the oligonucleotide.
 66. Themethod of claim 65, wherein the RGD peptide comprisesCyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Cys), Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys),Cyclo(-Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-azido), an amino benzoic acid derived RGD, or acombination thereof.